It seems to me that a mutually beneficial relationship between a man and woman requires the man to be dominant. A sensible woman will allow the man to think he is the most important partner.

There are many things in this life capable of throwing people off course - the death of someone close, the loss of income or health, the realisation that cherished hopes cannot always be fulfilled

The vital accessories to my work are my reference books, such as the complete Shakespeare and a prayer book, and a large refuse bin.

The older one becomes the quicker the present fades into sepia and the past looms up in glorious technicolour

Moonlight lined the windowsills like a fall of snow.

The prize I value most was given to me 60 years ago. I was named the girl with the cleanest fingernails.

What we remember is probably fiction anyway.