I am conservative by temperament. I disapprove of criminal activity. I am very solidly and markedly on the side of authority. The truth is I would rather err on the side of too much authority than too little.

I don't know anybody in the underworld. I make this stuff up. I don't know any criminals.

The novel is final form; it's the ultimate individual final form. Television and motion pictures never get there. You'd be fabulous to think that something you write is even going to be filmed. I give it the best shot of which I'm capable. But it's more a payday for me. And if I didn't have alimony and the full-time assistant.

The 1950s to me is darkness, hidden history, perversion behind most doors waiting to creep out. The 1950s to most people is kitsch and Mickey Mouse watches and all this intolerable stuff.

There's none with me, although you've seen me before - I'm outrageous.

Dead people belong to the live people who claim them most obsessively.

Joe Wambaugh's a friend. I know him only casually, but I like him a lot. I think he likes my books.