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.

I started out of course with Hemingway when I learned how to write. Until I realized Hemingway doesn't have a sense of humor. He never has anything funny in his stories.

It's my attempt to remain invisible, not distract the reader from the story with obvious writing.

After 58 years you'd think writing would get easier. It doesn't. If you're lucky, you become harder to please. That's all right, it's still a pleasure.

I'm not going to write for posterity. I'm going to write to make a buck.

I don’t think writers compete, I think they’re all doing separate things in their own style.

I get letters. I get several a week, I think. A lot of people want a picture, a lot of people just want an autograph.