Parents of young children should realize that few people, and maybe no one, will find their children as enchanting as they do.

I happen to disagree with the well-entrenched theory that the art of conversation is merely the art of being a good listener. Such advice invites people to be cynical with one another and full of fake; when a conversation becomes a monologue, poked along with tiny cattle-prod questions, it isn't a conversation any more.

Small children do not belong at an adult party, and especially should not be used like trained midgets to help serve martinis.

Don't let the bastards get you down.

Deep breaths are very helpful at shallow parties.

Homogeneity is much to be admired - in milk, for instance - but not for parties.

I didn't have a very religious family.