I've never set out consciously to write American music. I don't know what that would be unless the obvious Appalachian folk references.

I've never set out consciously to write American music. I don't know what that would be unless the obvious Appalachian folk references.

I found a certain kind of music congenial to me; it never occurred to me to write music that was academically acceptable.

There is something inherent in our democracy that tends to want to level. America is a little uncomfortable in the presence of someone who is distinctly superior in whatever way.

I think anything that is expressed directly and as honestly as possible will last.

Socially I never was an outsider. I have never thought of the conflict element before frankly, but perhaps it was wanting to belong, and at the same time wanting to retain one's own personality.

I find it enormously valuable to be sure that that the pacing is what I think it is and that the scenes have the shape I think they have musically and dramatically.