We all operate in two contrasting modes, which might be called open and closed. The open mode is more relaxed, more receptive, more exploratory, more democratic, more playful and more humorous. The closed mode is the tighter, more rigid, more hierarchical, more tunnel-visioned. Most people, unfortunately spend most of their time in the closed mode.

Naturally, people's image is of a performer, but the reality of it is the writing for me has always been the most important thing and the most rewarding thing.

If you want creative workers, give them enough time to play.

Most of the bad taste I've been accused of has been generic bad taste; it's been making fun of an idea as opposed to a person.

What I've always wanted to do is be as funny as possible.

If life were fair, Dan Quayle would be making a living asking 'Do you want fries with that?'

Laughter is a force for democracy.