That which draws us by its mystical force; what every created thing, even the very stones, feels with absolute certainty as the center of its being... is the force of love. Christians call this "eternal blessedness." It is a necessity of man for growth and joy.

It is a funny thing, but when I am making music, all the answers I seek for in life seem to be there, in the music. Or rather, I should say, when I am making music, there are no questions and no need for answers.

To write a symphony is, for me, to construct a world.

Spring won't let me stay in this house any longer! I must get out and breathe the air deeply again.

Tradition is the spreading of fire and not the veneration of ashes.

The spirit can assert itself only through the medium of clear form.

Destiny smiles upon me but without making me the least bit happier.