At the time I begin writing a novel, the last thing I want to do is follow a plot outline. To know too much at the start takes the pleasure out of discovering what the book is about.

I don't have any of the modern stuff. I don't have e-mail. I don't have a computer!

I left advertising as fast as I could in 1961. And I haven't ever thought about going back.

There are 500 million people on Facebook, but what are they saying to each other? Not much.

Try not to write the parts that people skip.

If it sounds like writing, I rewrite it. Or, if proper usage gets in the way, it may have to go. I can't allow what we learned in English composition to disrupt the sound and rhythm of the narrative.

To me, writing is the most fun. It's not always fun, but finally when you make it come out the way you want, it's then you can say, 'It's fun, boy.'