set up in opposition to God and the world, in order that he
fulfill his destiny, or live out his life, as the popular phrase
goes today. Here the tremendous tragedy which lies in the story
has received a musical expression quite without parallel,
notwithstanding the moderation exercised in the employment of
means. In "Die Zauberflote," finally, we observe the
clarification which follows the fermentation. Here we breathe the
pure, clear atmosphere of heaven, the atmosphere within which he
can live who has freed himself from selfish desire, thus gaining
internal peace, and who recognizes his ego only in the happiness
and welfare of others.



22. "I have an unspeakable desire to compose another opera....In
Italy one can acquire more honor and credit with an opera than
with a hundred concerts in Germany, and I am the happier because
I can compose, which, after all, is my one joy and passion....I
am beside myself as soon as I hear anybody talk about an opera,
sit in a theatre or hear singing."

(Munich, October 11, 1777, to his father, reporting an
expectation of making a position for himself in Italy.)

23. "I beg of you do your best that we may go to Italy. You know
my greatest longing--to write operas....Do not forget my wish to
write operas! I am envious of every man who composes one; I could
almost weep from chagrin whenever I hear or see an aria. But
Italian, not German; seria not buffa."