I was raised in a very old fashioned Ireland where women were reared to be lovely.

I find being Irish quite a wearing thing. It takes so much work because it is a social construction. People think you are going to be this, this, and this.

We do not always like the people we love- we do not always have that choice.

I have a small room to write in. One wall is completely covered in books. And I face the window with the curtain closed to stop the light hitting the computer.

I write anywhere - when I have an idea it’s hard not to write. I used to be kind of precious about where I wrote. Everything had to be quiet and I couldn’t be disturbed, it really filled my day.

Cats, I always think, only jump into your lap to check if you are cold enough, yet, to eat.

I think you know everything at eight. But is is hidden from you, sealed up, in a way you have to cut yourself open to find.