Elliot Carter's highly complex score from 1971 divides the string quartet into the dramatic arrangement of two duos. Duo I is Violin I and Cello, and Duo II is Violin II and Viola. The duos are placed as far apart as conveniently possible so that their individual characters can be more easily perceived by the listeners. Duo I plays in a flexible "tempo rubato" throughout with rhythmic units primarily in even sub-divisions. Duo II displays rhythmic regularity in "tempo giusto" and odd sub-divisions (threes, fives, sevens, etc.) which seem to "float" compared to the material for Duo I. The duos are further differentiated over the course of the work because Duo I plays four movements and Duo II plays six. These movements overlap each other and are arranged in various combinations totaling twenty-four in all. Of the twenty-four combinations, eight are for solo Duos. The duos rarely convene rhythmically, and most often confront each other through polyrhythms and varying tempi. Carter has suggested that the duos actually represent two separate pieces going on simultaneously, but that they also form combinations of which the listener should be aware. The twenty-four combinations are further differentiated by a unique intervallic structure, dynamic profile, phrase structure, bowings, and registration.

Carter explores a vast range of sound combinations, from the explosive, debating material of the beginning to mysterious torrents of pizzicati. Sustaining harmonics and twisting chromatic figures are answered by chopping basses; lamenting melodies are surrounding by popping and snapping; this uncalm, unremittingly dissonant universe builds to a dramatic conclusion.

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