"I have only a mind to live, to enjoy - i.e., to work as an artist, and produce my works; but not for..." — Richard Wagner

The measures and acts which show us violently disposed towards the outer world can never stay without a violent reaction on ourselves.

In no State is there a weightier law than that which centers its stability in the supreme hereditary power of one particular family, unconnected and un-commingling with any other lineage in that State.

I can't distract myself enough here, for sketches to a new opera are constantly buzzing around in my head, to the extent that I need all my strength to wrest myself from them.

I was in a state of gnawing, sensuous agitation that excited continually both blood and nerves when I sketched out the music for 'Tannhauser' and brought it to completion.