This fugue in E minor is somewhat of a rarity in Bach's compositional output - it is in 2 parts, rather than the more traditional 3 parts (or more). It has several unusual and compelling features - among them, several passages of parallel octaves, an abrupt ending - it is as if the music were suddenly interrupted. Many players will choose to place a fermata over the last notes - creating a sustained kind of suspension.

Some scholars have speculated that Bach purposely chose to end it abruptly as a perhaps metaphysical musing on how life itself can be suddenly ended.

This arrangement for two guitars is a great concert piece as well as a wonderful study within which to explore Bach's contrapuntal style.