There is no creation without tradition; the 'new' is an inflection on a preceding form; novelty is always a variation on the past.

I discovered very quickly that criticism is a form of optimism, and that when you are silent about the shortcomings of your society, you're very pessimistic about that society. And it's only when you speak truthfully about it that you show your faith in that society.

I have never considered myself a writer in exile because I grew up outside of my own country, because my father was a diplomat. Therefore, I grew up in Brazil, Chile, Argentina, the United States, I studied in Switzerland - so I've always had perspective on my country - I am thankful for that.

Incredible the animal that first dreamed of another animal.

What America does best is to understand itself. What it does worst is to understand others.

Contrary to the macho culture of Mexico, both my grandmothers were very brave young widows. I was always very close to these hard-working, intelligent women.

The United States condoned dictatorships in Latin America for much of the 20th century.