I believe that writing is derivative. I think good writing comes from good reading.

My mother, at least twice, cancelled our family's subscription to the newspaper I was working on, because she was so mad about its treatment of my father.

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.

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

The love of family and the admiration of friends is much more important than wealth and privilege.

It's that enthusiasm, that passion for what you're doing, that is most important.

I can't remember a time when I didn't want to be a reporter. I don't know where I got the idea that it was a romantic calling.