"My entire life has really revolved around music that was written about the time that I was born, 1908, to just before the First World War and shortly after it. This music I've always known, and it is that music that's most important to me"

In this quote, author Elliott Carter reviews the effect that music from the early 20th century has actually had on his life. He describes that his whole life has actually been centered around this music, which was composed throughout the time he was born in 1908 and the years leading up to and following the First World War. This music holds an unique significance to him, as he has always recognized with it and it holds an unique location in his heart. It is clear that this music has significantly affected Carter's own structures and has played a vital function in shaping his musical identity.