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

It is my wish that you may have at better and freer life than I have had. Recommend virtue to your children; it alone, not money, can make them happy. I speak from experience; this was what upheld me in time of misery.

I liked your opera. I think I will set it to music.

There is no loftier mission than to approach the Godhead more nearly than other mortals, and by means of that contact to spread the rays of the Godhead through the human race.

Men are not only together when they are with each other; even the distant and the dead live with us.

I wish you music to help with the burdens of life ,and to help you release your happiness to others.

I have never thought of writing for reputation and honor. What I have in my heart must come out; that is the reason why I compose.