"I am not facing the problem of emigration. I want my music to be acknowledged here first of all, in this country: after that, we shall see - perhaps the question will than become urgent"
- Alfred Schnittke
About this Quote
Alfred Schnittke's quote talks to his desire to be acknowledged as a musician in his house country before seeking recognition abroad. He is not currently dealing with the issue of emigration, but he is aware that it may become an issue in the future. He wants to be acknowledged in his own nation first, and after that he will think about the possibility of emigrating. This quote shows Schnittke's dedication to his house nation and his desire to be valued there prior to looking for acknowledgment elsewhere. It likewise speaks to his ambition and his determination to take risks in order to achieve his goals. Schnittke's quote is a suggestion that success typically requires taking dangers which in some cases it is required to leave one's house in order to pursue one's dreams.
"If a man does not keep pace with his companions, perhaps it is because he hears a different drummer. Let him step to the music which he hears, however measured or far away"