My fatherland has always the first claim on me.

Melody is the essence of music. I compare a good melodist to a fine racer, and counterpoints to hack post-horses.

To win applause one must write stuff so simple that a coachman might sing it.

If only the whole world could feel the power of harmony.

I must give you a piece of intelligence that you perhaps already know, namely that the ungodly arch-villain Voltaire has died miserably like a dog, just like a brute. That is his reward!

I am not thoughtless but am prepared for anything and as a result can wait patiently for whatever the future holds in store, and I'll be able to endure it.

All I insist on, and nothing else, is that you should show the whole world that you are not afraid. Be silent, if you choose; but when it is necessary, speak—and speak in such a way that people will remember it.