Johannes Brahms

One must always strive for perfection, even if it is unattainable.

The silence between the notes is just as important as the notes themselves.

I have no fear of death; it is a natural part of life.

The purpose of art is to wash the dust of daily life off our souls.

True happiness lies in the pursuit of something greater than oneself.

The human spirit is resilient, even in the face of adversity.

Music can express that which cannot be said and on which it is impossible to be silent.

I compose because I must; it is my destiny.

I have been for a long time a quiet, solitary man, and I have learned to be content with my lot.

I am a slow worker, and I like to take my time. I do not believe in rushing things.

I would give all my symphonies to have written a single song like Schubert's 'Erlkönig'.

I have always been a lonely man, and I have never had a home.

I am not a revolutionary, but I hope my music will be a step forward.

I have always tried to be honest in my music, and I hope it shows.

I am not a man of the world, but I hope my music will be understood by all.

I have always been a serious man, and I hope my music reflects that.

I am not a man of fashion, but I hope my music will stand the test of time.

I have always been a man of principle, and I hope my music reflects that.

I am not a man of compromise, and I hope my music reflects that.

I have always been a man of conviction, and I hope my music reflects that.