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.

Siberia is so big, it’s almost more an idea than a place

Every once in a while, people need to be in the presence of things that are really far away.

I think what is important for things to be funny is if you the listener, or the reader, get a chance to supply the humor of it yourself.

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

When I needed to think or was really upset, generally I climbed a tree.