We started off trying to set up a small anarchist community, but people wouldn't obey the rules.

Cloisters, ancient libraries ... I was confusing learning with the smell of cold stone.

Life is rather like a tin of sardines - we're all of us looking for the key.

I lack what the English call character, by which they mean the power to refrain.

Mark my words, when a society has to resort to the lavatory for its humour, the writing is on the wall.

[B]riefing is not reading. In fact it is the antithesis of reading. Briefing is terse, factual and to the point. Reading is untidy, discursive and perpetually inviting. Briefing closes down a subject, reading opens it up.

Your whole life is on the other side of the glass. And there is nobody watching.