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.

Oh you men who think or say that I am malevolent, stubborn, or misanthropic, how greatly do you wrong me. You do not know the secret cause which makes me seem that way to you. Oh how harshly was I flung back by the doubly sad experience of my bad hearing.

Art always demands of us something new.

Whoever tells a lie is not pure of heart, and such a person can not cook a clean soup.

Love demands all, and has a right to all.

This is the mark of a really admirable man: steadfastness in the face of trouble.

Don't only practise your art, but force your way into its secrets.