Quotes / The Agony and the Ecstasy

Michelangelo: Holy Father? I have come to take my leave of you, Holiness.

Julius II: Leave?

Michelangelo: Yes, Holiness. You were right; it's useless to go on with the ceiling. I am returning to Florence.

Julius II: Wait! You dare...you dare leave your work without permission?

Michelangelo: Then I ask permission of Your Holiness.

Julius II: It is refused; do you hear, it is refused! You will complete your work!

Michelangelo: Why should I? You haven't completed yours...Holy Father.

Julius II: Insolence!

Michelangelo: Then why don't you take a stick to me? You did before!

Julius II [gets up]: I will...I will give you your choice; you will return to the Sistine Chapel or you will go to a dungeon... my son.

Michelangelo: Yes, Holy Father. [leaves]

---