Have you ever walked down the streets of New York and been given the right of way? It's an amazing feeling.

As a musician, my job is incredibly easy, and it's a good one, but I've got to work at it occasionally.

For the longest time, I was just playing music and not really expecting any success - just kind of doing it because I liked doing it. While doing that, I went on a lot of shitty tours, playing to nobody, so I think it makes me appreciate it. Our band the New Pornographers have been popular for a few years now, but it still shocks me. I remember thinking we were hugely popular when we sold 15,000 records, and now this one sold 30,000 in two weeks. I'm grateful for the whole thing.

Visualize success, but don't believe your eyes.

I've always liked using flutes and clarinets. Any time I can use those, I'm really happy.

Having a kid made me realize, "I have to take care of this kid, but I can't have the luxury of dropping everything in the world and spending every waking moment with him. I've got to work."

Have you ever walked down the streets of New York and been given the right of way? It's an amazing feeling.