Maria Callas

An opera begins long before the curtain goes up and ends long after it has come down. It starts in my imagination, it becomes my life, and it stays part of my life long after I've left the opera house.
Maria Callas

I am not an angel and do not pretend to be. That is not one of my roles. But I am not the devil either. I am a woman and a serious artist, and I would like so to be judged.
Maria Callas

Don't talk to me about rules, dear. Wherever I stay I make the goddam rules.
Maria Callas

I don't need the money, dear. I work for art.
Maria Callas

I prepare myself for rehearsals like I would for marriage.
Maria Callas

I don't know what happens to me on stage. Something else seems to take over.
Maria Callas

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