The barriers are not erected which can say to aspiring talents and industry, 'Thus far and no farther.'

The world is a king, and like a king, desires flattery in return for favor; but true art is selfish and perverse — it will not submit to the mold of flattery.

You're a happy fellow, for you'll give happiness and joy to many other people. There is nothing better or greater than that.

Beethoven can write music, thank God, but he can do nothing else on earth.

You ask me where I get my ideas. That I cannot tell you with certainty. They come unsummoned, directly, indirectly - I could seize them with my hands - out in the open air, in the woods, while walking, in the silence of the nights, at dawn, excited by moods which are translated by the poet into words, by me into tones that sound and roar and storm about me till I have set them down in notes.

In whatsoever manner it be, let me turn to God and become fruitful in good works. Nothing higher exists than to approach God more than other people and from that to extend His glory among humanity.I will place all my confidence in your eternal goodness, O God! My soul shall rejoice in Thee, immutable Being. Be my rock, my light, forever my trust.

Don't only practice your art, but force your way into its secrets; art deserves that, for it and knowledge can raise man to the Divine.