I have a Music History II presentation on Thursday about Ottorino Respighi, specifically the Pines of Rome. I’m using his quote “Atonality? Thank heaven that’s done for!”

…was he speaking too soon? Lol.

I have a basic understanding of what atonality is, but I’m not confident in my full understanding of it. So yes, atonality lacks a tonal center, but I’m confused as to where the line is drawn I guess? I’m a bass player and my theory is meh currently.

For example, I wish by Stevie wonder is in what I thought was Eb minor, turns out it’s Eb Dorian, but can be looked at like it’s based around a Eb major triad? I’m digressing, but my main point is that there are plenty of chromatics in that bass riff, would that be considered atonal? Or would it not be considered atonal because it is still based around Eb something? Am I making any sense with my questions? Lol any response is welcome.