“I have nothing to say," he begins. "Music says what I need to say. And it is dangerous to say anything, because if I’ve said it already in words there might be nothing left for my music.” Perhaps there is something contradictory about such an ascetic figure enjoying worldwide popularity and being one of the most instantly recognisable of all contemporary composers. His almost cult following extends beyond what might be called “classical” music to fans of other genres, and such figures as Björk, Keith Jarrett and Nick Cave all claim him as an influence. He is even said to be one of the most popular composers in Iran today, despite obvious religious differences.