A recurring melody is a musical phrase that is repeated throughout a piece of music. The term 'recurring melody' can be broken down into three distinct parts: thema (5 letters), MOTIF (5 letters), and THEME (5 letters). A thema is a short, simple melody that is repeated throughout the piece. A MOTIF is a more complex version of the thema, usually with variations in rhythm or harmony. Finally, a THEME is a longer, more developed version of the thema and MOTIF, often with a distinct structure.