"Right at the end of the war I wrote a piano sonata, which was written at a time when Sam Barber used to come down here and we used to have lunch together in a very nice old hotel that's now not there"

In this quote, composer Elliott Carter reflects on a particular time in his life throughout the end of a war. He discusses composing a piano sonata during this period, which holds significance as it was developed throughout a time of turmoil and uncertainty. Carter also mentions the presence of fellow author Sam Barber, with whom he shared meals at a now nonexistent hotel. This detail adds a sense of fond memories and longing for a time that has passed. In general, the quote highlights the impact of historical occasions on creative expression and the value of human connection during tough times.