It’s good to be a great creator of something inspiringly beautiful. The main thing is to feel comfortable. Comfortable, despite migraine, the Soviet regime, the mediocre people around, the countless Salieris’ envy, and the breakdowns of students whose minds aren’t strong yet. Still, it’s good. Because skis, snowy expanses, favorite books, a piano, billiards, records, admiring looks from friends and trembling young men—truth, goodness, beauty, and a slice of cheese are always there with them. With those whom fate has prepared the path of the happy chosen. Even those who envy and cheats, impotents and informers, careerists and know-it-alls—all of them know their price. Even misfortunes lead them to heavenly bliss. Even a headache promises the highest revelations. Either in E major, or in F-sharp minor.