I know that statistically, it has been proven that there is a tremendous amount of black on black crime within the inner cities.

Raw, naked truth exchanged between the black man and the white man is what a whole lot more of is needed in this country - to clear the air of the racial mirages, cliches, and lies that this country's very atmosphere has been filled with for four hundred years.

I am really quite proud of most of the people I " know who have "made it," who do things to help people.

I don't know anywhere in the world where there is not racism against somebody.

When you clench your fist, no one can put anything in your hand.

Many a young person tells me he wants to be a writer. I always encourage such people, but I also explain that there's a big difference between being a writer and writing. In most cases these individuals are dreaming of wealth and fame, not the long hours alone at the typewriter. You've got to want to write, I say to them, not want to be a writer. The reality is that writing is a lonely, private and poor-paying affair. For every writer kissed by fortune, there are thousands more whose longing is never requited. Even those who succeed often know long periods of neglect and poverty. I did.

I think one of the most fascinating things you can do after you learn about your own people is to study something about the history and culture of other people.