Not long ago, I read Diaghilev's biography written by Sjeng Schejen. His life was vivid, full of superstitions, ups and downs, famous friends, and nemeses. There is no way that a short summary of his biography will be enough to make you understand the kind of man Diaghilev was—the founder of the Ballets Russes, a Russian art critic, and a ballet impresario. However, I still want to share some quotes from the book:

One must forge ahead. We must astonish and not be afraid of it; we must present ourselves all at once, showing ourselves completely, with all the qualities and flaws of our nationality.

Venice is the constant inspiration for our peace of mind. (Note: "Упокоение" can mean rest, peace, or final rest; given Diaghilev's deep love for Venice and his eventual burial there, it carries a profound, poetic weight)

We don’t just live; we have a terrible craving to live, as if without these efforts our life will simply cease.

Art—at least human art—is not bird song, after all; first and foremost, it is work. A thing must absolutely be well-made.

I will not, of course, pursue extravagance, but changing my appearance is something I consider too petty and beneath me. I will be as I was, and that is that. If need be, I will even walk around in rags.

Diaghilev may not be as famous as before, but nobody can stay ignorant of his personality and art.