Genius can probably run on ahead and seek out new ways. But the good artists who follow after genius - and I count myself among these - have to restore the lost connection once more.

"To this day I do not know whether the power which has inspired my works is something related to religion, or is indeed religion itself."

I do not want to die . . . until I have faithfully made the most of my talent and cultivated the seed that was placed in me until the last small twig has grown.

"No longer diverted by other emotions, I work the way a cow grazes."

"For the last third of life there remains only work. It alone is always stimulating, rejuvenating, exciting and satisfying."