"There were periods when I sometimes made fires in a large, open fireplace that lasted about two weeks, which was how long it took to burn my compositions. So there has been an awful lot that I have destroyed"

In this quote, author Alan Hovhaness reflects on his innovative procedure and the destruction of his own work. He explains a time when he would construct fires in a big fireplace and burn his structures, which would take about 2 weeks to totally burn. This act of destruction signifies the intense commitment and dedication Hovhaness needed to his craft. He acknowledges that he has damaged a considerable amount of his own work, suggesting that he continuously strives for perfection and is not afraid to dispose of anything that does not meet his requirements. This quote highlights the enthusiasm and sacrifice that enters into developing art.