As writers, the world is not about individual expression entirely because we are producing works of literature and getting them out into the world.

I like to use research to enlarge the poem. And sometimes a rhetorical or syntactical gesture stitches the poem along.

It's extremely important that, as writers, we give a voice to those who don't have voices, including the other animals that we share the planet with and the places that are endangered or being lost.

Once you realize that human actions affect every bit of earth and sky, you realize that the environment isn't just what surrounds us - it's all one whole.

I am a result of what has happened on this planet - how could I find the art to say that? I can't, and yet, I am drawn to it because of the enormity of it. That seems really important.

Bringing science into poetry is one way of acknowledging some of the richest stuff that is in my cultural moment.

I've been accused of darkness by my inner light.

I don't know much about death and the sorriest lesson I've learned is that words, my most trusted guardians against chaos, offer small comfort in the face of anyone's dying.

What keeps me level is the refusal to let the best of human aspirations die in the face of the challenges. I make a moral decision to be hopeful.

We're nature. Our minds are nature. Our desire to make poetry is nature.

Writers want recognition, audience, some corroboration that all those hours at the desk and in daydreams add up to something in the esteem of others.

The good news is that real-world hands-on conservation is alive and well and catching on across the America I travel.

The candle flame gutters. Its little pool of light trembles. Darkness gathers. The demons begin to stir.

As far as I'm concerned, the most important thing you need when inventing characters is empathy.

Some die too young, some die too old; the precept sounds strange, but die at the right age.

I don't recommend washing your face. Because you might drown.

Your life will never improve unless you start making daily improvements.

Americans don't understand irony? I am an intelligent person living in the United States. My entire existence is ironic.

Obviously its a good feeling to know that something you've done has lasted.

I can't understand why Scholes has never won the player of the year award. He should have won it long ago. Maybe it's because he doesn't seek the limelight like some of the other 'stars'.

A speckled cat and a tame hare Eat at my hearthstone And sleep there; And both look up to me alone For learning and defence As I look up to Providence.