This pieces is inspired by the legend of St. Francis of Paola. It portrays the saint's miraculous crossing of the Strait of Messina using his cloak as a sail. Liszt was influenced by a picture he owned of St. Francis confidently walking on water, holding burning coals and giving a blessing. The composition captures Liszt's admiration for St. Francis of Paola, his namesake saint, depicting the dramatic scene of the saint's journey across turbulent waters. Liszt's letter to Richard Wagner vividly describes the imagery, with St. Francis striding on his cloak, illuminated by 'Charitas,' symbolizing divine love guiding him across the waves.