I never became a writer for the money. I am a poet first. Even getting published is a miracle for poets.

If, every day, I dare to remember that I am here on loan, that this house, this hillside, these minutes are all leased to me, not given, I will never despair.

certain very old people reach an age where every funeral becomes some sort of insane confirmation of strength, rather than of vulnerability, as it is when we are in our thirties or forties and our friends die.

Is perception equivalent to existence?

All my forebears worked for a living. My grandfather painted portraits. My mother too. My aunt painted seascapes.

We've lost more men to homosexuality than we ever did in two world wars.

I don't believe in organized religion. I believe that people should try to connect with their own life force and let it lead them to do with their lives what they will find satisfying.