It's innate in me to be a Democrat - a true Southern populist kind of Democrat. There's not a lot of those anymore. I'm not saying I'm right or wrong. That's just the way I feel.

I may be a real bad boy, but baby I'm a real good man.

We all take different paths in life, but no matter where we go, we take a little of each other everywhere.

But, yea, I grew up in a strong Baptist background.

There ain't no troubles that we can't rise above, with a handful of faith and a heartful of love.

When you touch and change peoples lives with a song, that's when you've made it as an artist

When all is said and done, I'd never count the cost. It's worth all that's lost, just to see you smile.

Like an old photograph, time can make a feeling fade, but the memory of a first love never fades away.

Art's for art. Money's for pizza.

I don't know where I'd be without you here with me. Life with you makes perfect sense. You're my best friend.

I still got a few more dances with the devil...

not only have children most certainly a right to their own ambitions, but their own lack of ambitions.

I think there's been an overestimation of how much the press can shape coverage and people's decisions.

I send messages to the White House continuously

Reaching beyond where you are is really important.

The only reason you are happy is because you choose to be happy. Happiness is a choice, and so is suffering.

I have never written a word that did not come from my heart. I never shall.

Selflessness is like waiting in a hospital In a badly-fitting suit on a cold wet morning. Selfishness is like listening to good jazz With drinks for further orders and a huge fire.

Perhaps, all writers walk such a line. In general - as we all do in our dreams - I believe I put something of myself into all the characters in my novels, male as well as female.

I dream too much, work too little.

Our police, our hard-working police, that our extraordinarily committed and dedicated military personnel, I'm really pleased that they are getting a good paid parental leave scheme.