I have heard people criticise Herzog as fleecing rich kids with his school. But this list, like the lists of many other brilliant artists, hides within it inspirational jump points.

• Always take the initiative.
• There is nothing wrong with spending a night in jail if it means getting the shot you need.
• Send out all your dogs and one might return with prey.
• Never wallow in your troubles; despair must be kept private and brief.
• Learn to live with your mistakes.
• Expand your knowledge and understanding of music and literature, old and modern.
• That roll of unexposed celluloid you have in your hand might be the last in existence, so do something impressive with it.
• There is never an excuse not to finish a film.
• Carry bolt cutters everywhere.
• Thwart institutional cowardice.
• Ask for forgiveness, not permission.
• Take your fate into your own hands.
• Learn to read the inner essence of a landscape.
• Ignite the fire within and explore unknown territory.
• Walk straight ahead, never detour.
• Manoeuvre and mislead, but always deliver.
• Don’t be fearful of rejection.
• Develop your own voice.
• Day one is the point of no return.
• A badge of honor is to fail a film theory class.
• Chance is the lifeblood of cinema.
• Guerrilla tactics are best.
• Take revenge if need be.
• Get used to the bear behind you.