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"Riemann's theory of phrase structure rests on the postulate that the pattern weak-strong is the 'sole basis for all musical construction.' This fundamental unit is termed the Motiv. It is fundamental because it represents a single unit of energy passing from growth to decay by way of a central stresspoint. It is thus a dynamic trace, a flux, and is far removed from the traditional notion of 'beat' in a 'bar,' each beat being separate and having its own 'weight.' Where two such Motiv units occur in succession they form the two elements of a Motiv at the next level of structure: the first forming the growth phase, the second the stress point and decay phase. And in turn, two such larger Motiv units form a still higher-level Motiv, and so on in a hierarchy. The result is a kind of grid ... The process of analysis is one of locating the lines of the grid behind the articulated surface of a piece or passage of music." (New Grove)