Human connection is the way things work. It's like a patronage system. You know somebody, and he knows somebody, and he knows somebody, and he knows the district governor, and it's okay.

Despite the obvious benefits, many Americans do not like Texas. Some even say they despise Texas, and make no secret of their feelings.

Russians don't complain, usually.

There's an idea of the Plains as the middle of nowhere, something to be contemptuous of. But it's really a heroic place.

I am an author, and like many in my profession, I am also a traveling salesman, going all over in an attempt to persuade people to spend twenty-five dollars on a hardcover book by me.

Russian humor is to adapt or make some sense or nonsense out of the insanity of their lives.

Leading economists have shown that by shrinking Texas, we can actually create more income for Texas in the long run.