No one likes my books except the public.

The first chapter sells the book; the last chapter sells the next book.

The most important part of a story is the ending. No one reads a book to get to the middle.

I'm actually a softie. Tough guys get killed too early... I've got a full head of hair and don't wear eyeglasses.

Inspiration is an empty bank account.

Mike Hammer drinks beer because I can't spell Cognac.

Nobody reads a book to get to the middle.

If the public likes you, you're good. Shakespeare was a common, down-to-earth writer in his day.

Those big-shot writers ... could never dig the fact that there are more salted peanuts consumed than caviar.

I have no fans. You know what I got? Customers. And customers are your friends.

If I need something, I'll invent it.

You are the Energizer Bunny for badasses. -Ash

Strength and growth come only through continuous effort and struggle.

A poem is an event, like a wedding or birth.

Old age and treachery will always beat youth and exuberance.

If a chair or a building is not functional, if it appears to be only art, it is ridiculous.

Take what you have and make what you want.

I'm a science fiction geek from birth - that's just who I am.

My assumption is that fundamentally the picture of the human animal, as developed by Freud, is largely right.

No one will ever write a fantasy novel better than The Hobbit.

Try not to sing too many sad songs for yourself. The universe already hates you. Self-pity isn't going to help.