Writing keeps me at my desk, constantly trying to write a perfect sentence. It is a great privilege to make one's living from writing sentences. The sentence is the greatest invention of civilization. To sit all day long assembling these extraordinary strings of words is a marvelous thing. I couldn't ask for anything better. It's as near to godliness as I can get.
John BanvilleDogs are dim creatures, do not speak to me of their good sense--have you ever heard of a team of tomcats hauling a sled across the frozen wastes?
John BanvilleIn my books you have to concentrate, but I work hard to make it that, when you do, the rewards are quite high.
John BanvilleA man is not much if he can't depend on himself, and nothing if others can't depend on him.
John Banville