Composition is a process of combination, in which thought puts together complementary truths, and talent fuses into harmony the most contrary qualities of style. So that there is no composition without effort, without pain even, as in all bringing forth. The reward is the giving birth to something living--something, that is to say, which, by a kind of magic, makes a living unity out of such opposed attributes as orderliness and spontaneity, thought and imagination, solidity and charm.

He who is too much afraid of being duped has lost the power of being magnanimous.

Charm is the quality in others that makes us more satisfied with ourselves.

It is work which gives flavor to life.

A musical theme once exhausted, finds its due refuge and repose in silence.

Self-interest is but the survival of the animal in us. Humanity only begins for man with self-surrender.

Conquering any difficulty always gives one a secret joy, for it means pushing back a boundary-line and adding to one's liberty.