Zwei Frauen, die linke singend,(Two Women, the Left One Singing) [p. 49] 

Max Beckmann sketched “Two Women, the Left One Singing” using graphite, capturing two figures in a moment of expressive intensity. The composition, economical in its lines, presents an intimate view of human emotion, rendered with a sense of immediacy. Notice how Beckmann uses the stark contrast between the white paper and the dark graphite to emphasize the contours of the figures. The lines, though sparse, are deeply expressive, particularly around the faces, where they convey emotion and psychological depth. This evokes a raw, unfiltered look into the emotional states of his subjects. Beckmann’s approach destabilizes traditional portraiture, foregoing detailed representation in favor of capturing the essence of human expression. This can be seen as reflecting the broader anxieties and existential themes that permeate much of early 20th-century art. The lack of background or setting further isolates the figures. This amplifies the focus on their emotional states, underscoring themes of human isolation. The linear structure of the sketch, therefore, serves not just an aesthetic purpose, but also amplifies the artwork's engagement with deeper cultural anxieties.