If I felt that one of my operas did not come off I would certainly say so.

The story of Willie Stark fascinated me because it was tackling the story of a man who outwardly has all the success one could possibly want and who is destroyed by his personal demons.

What is American music? The most satisfying answer I've come across is that it was a kind of natural comfort with the vernacular which is diverse and regional; it's not one particular set of sounds.

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.

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

You can't possibly predict what will last or not. But once you attempt to write for the ages, you're doomed.