My characters have to talk, or they're out. They audition in early scenes. If they can't talk, they're given less to do, or thrown out.

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

I've quit writing screenplay [adaptations]. It's too much work. I don't look at writing a novel as work, because I only have to please myself. I have a good time sitting here by myself, thinking up situations and characters, getting them to talk - it's so satisfying. But screenwriting's different. You might think you're writing for yourself, but there are too many other people to please.

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.

I spent most of my dough on booze, broads and boats and the rest I wasted.

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

I don't believe in writer's block. I don't know what that is. There are just certain little areas that I know I'm going to get through. It's just a matter of finding a way.