In the '80s, everyone wanted to be in opera. It was groovy.

I grew up around jazz. I love jazz.

I've always loved the old epics that tell a simple emotional story, whether it's the tumultuous relationship between Rhett and Scarlett or Lawrence of Arabia's passion to get lost in a faraway place.

It's pretty hard to get mugged in Manhattan.

My wife is the fact-checker, I'm in the story telling business.

In this country, particularly, actually in times that are difficult, or from corners of America where you least expect it, unbelievable pure creativity has welled up. Generally because of the cross-fertilization... a Scott Joplin tune becomes jazz, becomes blues, and becomes rock 'n' roll.

Ultimately, you have to pursue your own path, not someone's idea of the right path. You need to stay on your path.