I think we all have a selfish gene which rises to the top, sometimes. But then we're also all capable of a sudden magnanimity.

We seem to have reached the age where life stops giving us things and starts taking them away.

I love a really good storyline.

In Hollywood films everything is tidied up at the end with clean lines and clean character definitions. It's sort of unsatisfying.

Other people have a much better idea of what I might do than I.

I haven't got a writer's discipline.

When you research someone, you actually get beyond your own preconceptions and become aware of the human being other than the image. You become empathetic and sympathetic in turn.

You can't be angsty all day or else it becomes a sort of pale angst.

I see myself as a small 'l' liberal, but not coalition liberal, necessarily.

We've all got a black book of missed opportunities.

The films I enjoy seeing are those that reveal lives I was unaware of... in different cultures or whatever.

I can’t teach you how to write, and anybody who says they can is full of shit.

There ought to be a better way than government to run the world.

As an actor, I know that any feelings you're showing are manufactured. But I still don't want to fool my mind into thinking my wife's into another guy.

The practice of meditation is an ancient practice. It's been practiced in many lands, for many lifetimes. You may have practiced it before.

Leadership is helping other people grow and succeed. it is not just about you. It's all about them.... everyone deserves a chance.... you can never let yourself be a victim.

Unemployed writers have muses. Employed writers just sweat.

Close your mouth, E'lir Kvothe, or I will feel obliged to put some vile tonic in it.

For those who have only ever read about [John] Calvin, reading the man himself is an invigorating experience.

The vain poet is of the opinion that nothing of his can be too much: he sends to you basketful after basketful of juiceless fruit, covered with scentless flowers.

What thing, in honor, had my father lost, That need to be revived and breathed in me?