Many people who want to be writers don't really want to be writers. They want to have been writers. They wish they had a book in print.

I was a Navy officer writing about Navy problems and I simply stole this lovely Army nurse and popped her into a Navy uniform, where she has done very well for herself.

When this is over, I'm not going to be the same guy. I am going to live as if I were a great man.

A poet sees things in two ways: First, as a child who never saw it before, and Second, as a dying man who will never see it again.

Never forget, son, when you represent Texas, always go first class.

I have only one bit of advice to beginning writers: be sure your novel is read by Rodgers and Hammerstein.

The arrogance of the artist is a very profound thing, and it fortifies you.