 It was written in 1869, as a wedding gift for Robert and Clara Schumann's daughter, Julie.Brahms scholars have long speculated that the composer may have had romantic feelings for Julie, which he may have integrated into the text and music of the "Alto Rhapsody".The text, with its metaphysical portrayal of a misanthropic soul who is urged to find spiritual sustenance and throw off the shackles of his suffering, has powerful parallels in Brahms's life and character.