Novels often have leisurely openings; a TV drama needs an arresting opening.

Rebecca Eaton has made an enormous contribution to the cultural life of America, and, more than that, she is one of the most fun people I know.

I'm absolutely delighted if people think of me as a reliable purveyor of quality period stuff.

One of the things I've always thought is a drag in so many period adaptations is that they are always buttoned up to the neck in so many clothes all the time. I'm always looking for excuses to get them out of their clothes.

I adore doing classic adaptations, but I also feel their frustrations and their limitations.

I had a very high opinion of my father's judgement of things and he said, "You better get a job that pays the bills because a writer doesn't make any money. If possible, get a job that allows you to write in your spare time."

I would love it if anyone gave me the job of adapting 'The Great Gatsby,' but nobody ever does.