For me writing is a question of finding a certain rhythm. I compare it to the rhythms of jazz.

I don't think there's any intrinsic difference between a lover and a husband. ... If I were cynical, I would say that a woman should have both a good husband and a lover. But I'm not cynical so I'll just say that a woman should have a lover who's a good husband and a husband who's a good lover, perhaps both.

For me writing is a question of finding a certain rhythm. I compare it to the rhythms of jazz.

Looking for pleasure is the best way to ensure you won't find it.

Marriage? It's like asparagus eaten with vinaigrette or hollandaise, a matter of taste but of no importance.

I've read Proust and Stendhal. That keeps you in your place.

When man, Apollo man, rockets into space, it isn't in order to find his brother, I'm quite sure of that. It's to confirm that he hasn't any brothers.