My mother always said I must be part Mongolian because of my lotus-pale complexion and squid-ink black hair.

Who would drink from a cup when they can drink from the source?

There is a way of beholding nature which is a form of prayer, a way of minding something with such clarity and aliveness that the rest of the world recedes. It . . . gives the brain a small vacation.

Everyone admits that love is wonderful and necessary, yet no one agrees on just what it is.

I am a great fan of the universe, which I take literally: as one. All of it interests me, and it interests me in detail.

In the winter, I enjoy cross-country skiing and raising orchids and amaryllises. If I could grow tropical flowers as perennials, I would, especially hibiscus and mandavilla.

It began in mystery, and it will end in mystery, but what a savage and beautiful country lies in between.