*cannot hear the rush of blood in his ears, but his heart thuds wildly with joy (perfect) (it's perfect), and there is only a trace of pain (Mom would have been proud) in its midst*
*and those who think him "cold" or "somber" have clearly never seen him at the piano (crescendo), because his soul pours out through his fingers (forte), and every line of his body speaks of passion (fortissimo)*