What I like about writing is the sense of godlike power it gives you.

It's a strange paradox that a man gifted with too many talents can fritter them all away without developing a single one to its full.

I write my books in my head, and not in a specific study with a view. The view is from my inner eyes.

It's probably true that everyone has a book in them, although it may not be a very good one.

Failure makes success so much sweeter, and allows you to thumb your nose at the crowds.

They do say that socialism is the ideal philosophy-just as long as you have capitalists to pay for it.

I think one of the most poignant things is unrequited love and loneliness.

When I vacate this sack of old bones I won't care what you do with it. Bury or burn it but don't make much fuss.

Litigation only makes lawyers fat.

Sometimes it is best for men not to attempt to interfere with destiny. Our prayers can be answered in ways which we do not expect and do not welcome.

I don't want children. Why should I let some strange little monster into my life to destroy what to me is a perfect set-up?

It is proper for people to have friends, friendships without self-interest. Without friends, life is too lonely.

Believe in true beauty and the power of a loving smile because it can reveal the ultimate magic of life.

Taking the time to reflect on how you arrived at where you are today can have a massive impact on what your life will be like tomorrow.

Don't be in a hurry to change one evil for another.

The fact that beauty is at one and the same time without cost and above price, robs it of the curse of possessiveness.

A complete woman is probably not a very admirable creature. She is manipulative, uses other people to get her own way, and works within whatever system she is in.

How we become moral and understand good and bad, and how we overcome our impulse towards violence, is all really important to me, as a person.

Christ ought to be preached with this goal in mind--that we might be moved to faith in him so that he is not just a distant historical figure but actually Christ for you and me.

I think our lack of intimacy with the land has initiated a lack of intimacy with each other. What we perceive as non- human, outside of us, is actually in direct relationship with us.

I've learned to take time for myself and to treat myself with a great deal of love and respect, because I like me.. I think I'm kind of cool.