Final answer:
Debussy's career and compositional output were characterized by his groundbreaking approach to music and departure from traditional musical forms and structures.
Step-by-step explanation:
Debussy's career and compositional output were characterized by his groundbreaking approach to music and his departure from traditional musical forms and structures. He was one of the leading figures of the Impressionist movement in music, which sought to capture fleeting moods and impressions through the use of innovative harmonies, subtle textures, and imaginative orchestration.
An example of Debussy's unique style can be seen in his famous composition, 'Clair de Lune,' which features an impressionistic portrayal of moonlight through its dreamy melodies and shimmering harmonies.
Throughout his career, Debussy composed works in various genres, including symphonic music, chamber music, and opera. He played a crucial role in expanding the possibilities of musical expression and exerted a profound influence on later composers, such as Maurice Ravel and Igor Stravinsky.