Treasures are no longer to be got by instrumental art.

I wish to lead a life free from care, and I see that I shall be unhappy if I cannot always work at my art.

Composing gives me great pleasure... there is nothing that surpasses the joy of creation, if only because through it one wins hours of self-forgetfulness, when one lives in a world of sound.

How often have I actually discovered in myself that enthusiasm raises the artist above himself, how in an ordinary mood one would not have been able to accomplish many of the things for which enthusiasm lends one everything, energy, fire.

If I have known much trouble in my youth, I have also known much joy.

Is an artist much more than a beggar?

I do not want horses or diamonds - I am happy in possessing you.