First of all there is always that artistic challenge of creating something. Or the particular experience to take slum life in that period and make something out of it in the form of a book. And then I felt some kind of responsibility to my family.

I am not living the American Dream; I am living the American fantasy.

Love her as in childhood Through feeble, old and grey. For you’ll never miss a mother’s love Till she’s buried beneath the clay.

Teacher? I never dreamed I could rise so high in the world

When I act tough they listen politely till the spasm passes. They know.

Where did I get the nerve to think I could handle American teenagers? Ignorance. That's where I got the nerve.

A mother's love is a blessing No matter where you roam. Keep her while you have her, You'll miss her when she's gone -- Angela's Ashes.