When I've seen my operas in Europe, they have always struck me as more American than when I hear them here. I can't tell you what that phenomenon is.

America tends to worship the modest talent because it doesn't put us in an uncomfortable position vis-a-vis the artist.

I've never set out consciously to write American music. I don't know what that would be unless the obvious Appalachian folk references.

The performances of my works in the last 10 years are probably equal to all the previous years put together. There are so many venues now and there is a completely new public for opera that's grown up outside of the traditional core opera public.

I think anything that is expressed directly and as honestly as possible will last.

Anyone who creates something new or does something different artistically is going to be singled out.

People in very high places suddenly fall, and we are always surprised because we don't factor in the basic element that they're humans and, therefore, they are flawed and have weaknesses.