Artists are fiery; they do not weep.

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

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.

Strange, I feel as if up to now I had written no more than a few notes.

Recommend to your children to be virtuous, only the virtue can bring us happiness, not the money.

What is to reach the heart must come from above; if it does not come from thence, it will be nothing but notes, body without spirit.

Richard Wagner commenting on the music of Ludvig Van Beethoven: He was a Titan, wrestling with the Gods.