I write a book at least three times-once to understand it, the second time to improve the prose, and a third to compel it to say what it still must say.

A writer is a spectator, looking at everything with a highly critical eye.

(Clothes) cannot change a man's nature. He's either kind or he isn't, with or without clothes.

We have in my country (Russia) a quotation: "It is impossible to make out of apology a fur coat.

One's fantasy goes for a walk and returns with a bride.

A man has to construct, invent, his freedom.

First drafts are for learning what your story is about.