As an art form, opera is a rare and remarkable creation. For me, it expresses aspects of the human drama that cannot be expressed in any other way, or certainly not as beautifully.

You never know what little bundle of encouragements artists carry around with them, what little pats on the back from what hands, what newspaper clipping, what word of hope from what teacher. I suppose the so-called faith in ourselves is the foundation of our talent, but I am sure these encouragements are the mortar that holds it together.

I'm a perfectionist, and I always think that I can do better what I have done, even if it's good.

People think I'm disciplined. It is not discipline. It is devotion. There is a great difference.

I think Beijing deserves the Olympics in order to be with all the rest of the world recognized.

I am a very simple person. In spite of all that has happened to me, I have tried to remain the simple person I started out.

Opera is a beautiful and important diversion for me.