accident ruled every corner of the universe except the chambers of the human heart.

I have traveled the entire state and spent a lot of time out of doors. So I have known the landscape of the Columbia Basin for quite a while, and I have had this strong feeling about it for many years.

When it comes time to sit down and write the next book, you're deathly afraid that you're not up to the task. That was certainly the case with me after Snow Falling on Cedars.

I became paralyzed as an artist with writer's block.

None of those other things makes a difference. Love is the strongest thing in the world, you know. Nothing can touch it. Nothing comes close. If we love each other we're safe from it all. Love is the biggest thing there is.

I'm interested in themes that endure from generation to generation.

The strange thing was, he wanted to like everyone. He just couldn't find a way to do it.