I think one of the big things that's come out of ghostwriting for me is real compassion for the complexity of fame.

No one grows up thinking they want to be a ghostwriter. No one plans on that job.

Working with somebody who has a more interesting life than I do - and getting to take on that life temporarily - is an endlessly interesting way to have the experience of writing memoir.

None of my clients are criminals, but to a much lighter degree that's what goes on. I hear the story, and I hear it with the level of detail that breeds empathy.

I'm so used to being separate from the publication process. I turn in the book to the editor and then I'm done.

There are certain jobs I don't take because I feel no connection to the person. But if somebody is open with me, and honest about their motivations, and has some level of self-awareness, then I'm going to understand them.

I've been writing books without ego for a very long time. I feel like it will get what it deserves. Or won't get what it doesn't deserve.