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

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

It seems to me opera is just as relevant as an expressive art as anything else.

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

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

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.

If something is successful with the audience, it's automatically suspect; the reverse is to say that not to reach audiences is the greatest compliment an artist can receive!