The first books I was interested in were all about baseball. But I can't think of one single book that changed my life in any way.

There is such a thing as a national conscience, and it can be touched.

I could tell you which writer's rhythms I am imitating. It's not exactly plagiarism, it's falling in love with good language and trying to imitate it.

A true Southerner will never say in 2-3 words what can better be said in 10-12.

I don't know what makes a good feature story. I've always assumed that if it was a story that interested or amused me, that it would have the same impact on other people.

Rivers run through our history and folklore, and link us as a people.... We are a nation rich in rivers.

There is melancholy in the wind and sorrow in the grass