All my Calvaries were rosy crucifixions, pseudo-tragedies to keep the fires of hell burning brightly for the real sinners who are in danger of being forgotten.

It is no accident that propels people like us to Paris.

I read to be taken out of myself, to become ecstatic.

It isn't the oceans which cut us off from the world - it's the American way of looking at things.

Instead of asking 'How much damage will the work in question bring about?' why not ask 'How much good? How much joy?'

My understanding of the meaning of a book is that the book itself disappears from sight, that it is chewed alive, digested and incorporated into the system as flesh and blood which in turn creates new spirit and reshapes the world.

My hunger and curiosity drive me forward in all directions at once.