These precious illusions in my head did not let me down when I was defenseless, and parting with them is like parting with invisible best friends.

Profanity is merely an expression of one's emotions

Europe seems a little softer, but in America it's harsh. In L.A., where I live, it's all about perfectionism.

I think the Bible is hugely patriarchal. There are so many sexist comments and homophobic comments and comments that are not in keeping with nurturing and loving the human spirit.

What influenced me was Tori Amos, who was unapologetic about expressing anger through music, and Sinead O'Connor. Those two in particular were really moving for me, and very inspiring, before I wrote 'Jagged Little Pill.'

Some of the most beautiful things that have happened to me in my life have been things that I couldn't explain.

I love the universality of music and how it can viscerally connect people from culture to culture, regardless of anything. It kind of levels everything out and connects us. That universal sound thing is a big deal to me.