I'm really a library man, or second-hand book man.

I can't think of anybody worse to live with.

We lie to one another every day, in the sweetest way, often unconsciously. We dress ourselves and compose ourselves in order to present ourselves to one another.

I mean, you can't be less ruthless than the opposition simply because your government's policy is benevolent, can you now?

I was quite able at the insignificant work I did in MI6, but absolutely dysfunctional in my domestic life. I had no experience of fatherhood. I had no example of marital bliss or the family unit.

A good writer is an expert on nothing except himself. And on that subject, if he is wise, he holds his tongue.

Ideologies have no heart of their own. They're the whores and angels of our striving selves.