There is a world of difference between a Mahler eighth note and a normal eighth note.
Destiny smiles upon me but without making me the least bit happier.
A symphony must be like the world. It must contain everything.
Beauty and fullness of tone can be achieved by having the whole orchestra play with high clarinets and a carefully selected number of piccolos.
Never let oneself be guided by the opinion of one's contemporaries. Continue steadfastly on one's way.
If I weren't the way I am, I shouldn't write my symphonies.