In Schubert's "Erlkönig," the song features:
1. Vivid imagery associated with nature, such as moonlight through leaves.
2. A narrative that builds a dramatic and emotional storyline.
3. A depiction of characters and dialogue within the song's musical phrases.
"Erlkönig" depicts a child feeling anxious while riding with his father through night and forest, believing he spots and hears the malevolent presence of the Elf King (Erlkönig) approaching to lure, chase, and take him. All of the qualities in the list contribute to Schubert's effective rendition of Goethe's poem through music.