I cannot write in verse, for I am no poet. I cannot arrange the parts of speech with such art as to produce effects of light and shade, for I am no painter. Even by signs and gestures I cannot express my thoughts and feelings, for I am no dancer. But I can do so by means of sounds, for I am a musician.

You know that I become quite powerless whenever I am obliged to write for an instrument which I cannot bear.

Love guards the heart from the abyss.

I am a fool. That is well known.

When I am at peace with myself . . . then thoughts flow into me most easily and at their best. Where they come from and how - that I cannot say . . . I'd be willing to work forever and forever if I were permitted to write only such music as I want to write and can write - which I myself think good.

Love, love, love, that is the soul of genius.

Whoever is most impertinent has the best chance.