"Is an artist much more than a beggar?"

"There is nothing greater than the joy of composing something oneself and then listening to it."

"The tea is ice-cold, the room grows colder and colder, but I grow warmer and warmer."

"If I have known much trouble in my youth, I have also known much joy."

"I wish to lead a life free from care, and I see that I shall be unhappy if I cannot always work at my art."

"I do not want horses or diamonds - I am happy in possessing you."

"My imagination can picture no fairer happiness than to continue living for art."

"My health may be better preserved if I exert myself less, but in the end doesn't each person give his life for his calling?"

"Treasures are no longer to be got by instrumental art."

"Every man has his faults; I have and so have you - you will allow me to say so!"