Certainly one of the most unique and characteristic features of the Menuet is its emphasis on implication. For example, the frequently-unaccompanied measures in the upper part prompt us to imagine the harmony implied and anticipate the return of the bass line. This is particularly apparent in mm. 1, 9, and 12-13:
Implication is most effectively exploited at the reprise of the main theme in m. 17. With a clear dominant expressed in the previous measure, the familiar melody might seem to imply the tonic. However the bass of m. 18 reveals that tonic's return has been delayed and that the dominant has continued to be implied. As a result, our anticipation of tonic's arrival is marvelously enhanced!
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