My misfortune is doubly painful to me because it will result in my being misunderstood. For me there can be no recreation in the company of others, no intelligent conversation, no exchange of information with peers; only the most pressing needs can make me venture into society. I am obliged to live like an outcast.

Music should strike fire from the heart of man, and bring tears from the eyes of woman.

Only the pure in heart can make a good soup.

Then let us all do what is right, strive with all our might toward the unattainable, develop as fully as we can the gifts God has given us, and never stop learning

Rossini would have been a great composer if his teacher had spanked him enough on his backside.

I know no other sign of superiority than Goodness.

There is no loftier mission than to approach the Divinity nearer than other men, and to disseminate the divine rays among mankind.