To copy the truth can be a good thing, but to invent the truth is better, much better. - Giuseppe Verdi

If we let fashion, love of innovation, and an alleged scientific spirit tempt us to surrender the native quality of our own art, the free natural certainty of our work and perception, our bright golden light, then we are simply being stupid and senseless.

Really superior artists judge without being prejudiced by school, nationality or period. If the artists of north and south exhibit different tendencies, it is good that they are different!

Let us turn to the past: that will be progress.