If there is anyone here whom I have not insulted, I beg his pardon.

Straightaway the ideas flow in upon me, directly from God.

For the shallow delights of matrimony and opera I have no courage.

The fact that most people do not understand and respect the very best things, such as Mozart's concertos, is what permits men like us to become famous.

I sometimes ponder on variation form and it seems to me it ought to be more restrained, purer.

In my study I can lay my hand on the Bible in the pitch dark. All truly inspired ideas come from God. The powers from which all truly great composers like Mozart, Schubert, Bach and Beethoven drew their inspirations is the same power that enabled Jesus to do his miracles.

To follow in Beethoven's footsteps transcends one's strength.