Study Bach, there you will find everything. - Johannes Brahms

The idea comes to me from outside of me - and is like a gift. I then take the idea and make it my own - that is where the skill lies.

I wish I could write to you as tenderly as I love you and tell you all the good things that I wish you. You are so infinitely dear to me, dearer than I can say... If things go on much longer as they are at present I shall have sometime to put you under glass or to have you set in gold. If only I could live in the same town with you and my parents... Do write me a nice letter soon. Your letters are like kisses.

Without craftsmanship, inspiration is a mere reed shaken in the wind.