The graphically ambiguous notation of the slur in A may be interpreted in the light of more precisely notated analogous bars 3 and 27. However, a difference in dynamic markings – the presence of 
in bar 48 – makes one cautious in using analogies, also for slurring.
In our opinion, despite the fact that a bolder articulation of the phrase (suggested by a shorter slur) could be considered better suited to the intensifying dynamics, a longer slur is more probable here, as:
- imprecise notation means that Chopin considered the thing he was writing to be obvious; when a certain fragment re-appears in the text, we tend to interpret it in line with its previous appearances;
-
the continuity of the musical thought in that fragment is emphasized with the scope of the hairpins
, that begin while the note a flat1 is still sounding.
Compare the passage in the sources »
category imprint: Graphic ambiguousness; Differences between sources
issues: Inaccurate slurs in A
notation: Slurs