I change many things, discard others, and try again and again until I am satisfied; then, in my head, I being to elaborate the work in its breadth, its narrowness, its height, its depth...I hear and see the image in front of me from every angle as if it had been cast and only the labour of writing it down remains.

Mistakes - mistakes - you yourself are a unique mistake!

Applaud my friends, the comedy is over... [on his death bed]

The foundation of friendship demands the greatest likeness of human souls and hearts.

This is not a brook [Bach means "brook" in German], it's an ocean.

Good Morning, on July 7 My thoughts go out to you, my Immortal Beloved I can only live wholly with you or not at all- Be calm my life, my all. Only by calm consideration of our existence can we achieve our purpose to live together. Oh continue to love me, never misjudge the most faithful heart of your beloved. Ever Thine Ever Mine Ever Yours

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