Failure and deprivation are the best educators and purifiers.

Anyone who doesn't take truth seriously in small matters cannot be trusted in large ones either.

The ordinary objects of human endeavour – property, outward success, luxury – have always seemed to me contemptible.

Reality is merely an illusion, albeit a very persistent one.

Great ideas often receive violent opposition from mediocre minds.

I am happy because I want nothing from anyone. I do not care for money. Decorations, titles or distinctions mean nothing to me. I do not crave praise. The only thing that gives me pleasure, apart from my work, my violin and my sailboat, is the appreciation of my fellow workers.

If A is success in life, then A equals x plus y plus z. Work is x; y is play; and z is keeping your mouth shut.