Sir Paul McCartney urged everyone associated with his impending divorce from his estranged wife Heather Mills McCartney to behave with dignity as he launched the world premiere of his classical album at London's Royal Albert Hall on Friday.
Speaking to Radio 4's Today programme, the 64-year-old musician emphasized that his divorce was a private matter. "There are certain things in life that are personal and I think a relationship with a partner is intensely personal, and I prefer to keep it that way," he said.
"When you are going through difficulties, I think the thing to do for the sake of all the people concerned is to keep a certain dignity," he added, "and remember that it is a private affair and that way you will probably get through it better. You will put less noses out of joint and I think it is a more dignified way to go about it, so that's what I try to do."
Despite the bitter allegations that have dominated the headlines in recent weeks, the former Beatle says he holds no one responsible. "I do not hold grudges against anyone, I don't blame anyone for the sadnesses that have happened to me," he said. "I think life goes on and it is what you make of it, so I am pretty optimistic."
The star was treated to a standing ovation when he presented Ecce Cor Meum (Behold My Heart), his new classical composition inspired by his first wife, Linda. He told audience members at the famous concert hall that it had been "such a long labour of love" and thanked his family and friends for their help. He began composing the piece more than eight years ago before his first wife Linda died from breast cancer, but stopped working on it for two years because of his grief.
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