I know that the arts are important. I'm not denying that, but I can't associate myself with all the claptrap that goes on around it.

I think doubt is a very healthy way to live.

Israel means war and destruction and we Americans are behind this war and I am ashamed of being American.

I know that some actors and directors like to have intensity on set. I don't, particularly. Certainly, if they want that, that's fine, but I can't work like that.

If you have high expectations you're going to get resentments and all kinds of tension.

A conductor can't be too arrogant with an orchestra and try to impose himself too much.

Years ago I met Richard Burton in Port Talbot, my home town, and afterwards he passed in his car with his wife, and I thought, 'I want to get out and become like him'. Not because of Wales, because I love Wales, but because I was so limited as a child at school and so bereft and lonely, and I thought becoming an actor would do that.