Dominique Lemaître

Hélix

Composed with the support of the Centre National de la Musique. Helix or Helikos is a Greek word meaning spiral. As a symbol, the spiral is common to all ages and cultures, and has a variety of meanings, all linked to the dynamics of evolution. The spiral represents cyclical movement, extending outwards and inwards at the same time. The spiral expresses extension, cyclical continuity and perpetual balance between opposing dynamics. The symbolism of the spiral evokes the evolution of energy, and is linked to the idea of both circular and upward progression. The choice of the spiral as a symbol is linked to the vision of a form in permanent evolution. The spiral is also a metaphor for spatial displacement and travel. A journey that is always connected to its beginning, yet projected into the future... The spiral motif can be found in nature, on vines, shells, snails and... thousand-year-old temples.