Writing is a solitary occupation.

We don't build,' I said to my son, 'we just destroy.

I'm fortunate that the books sell, but even more fortunate to live in Chatham, to be very happily married and to have, on the whole, a fairly clear conscience.

Of course some days are easier than others, but my worst day is better than being in most humdrum occupations.

Life is a jest of the Gods and there is no justice. You must learn to laugh… or else you'll weep yourself to death.

Book tours and research provide a lot of travel - too much, I sometimes think, but we do take vacations.

You know what circumcision is, Private?