"My nerves are in a state of constant over-excitement, and I am perpetually on the verge of madness."

"I can only compose if I am in a state of frantic excitement. My nerves must be in a state of tension, of feverish agitation."

"My art is my religion, and I will not compromise it for anything."

"The Jew, who is in fact the most born enemy of pure humanity, is, in general terms, the born enemy of all that is noble in man. He is the born foe of every pure, noble, and spiritual inspiration."

"I do not know what the meaning of my life is, if it is not to make music."