What is a week-end? Maggie Smith in Downton Abbey.

I mean the truth is, I've always been interested in the whole setup of the old world.

Harsh reality is always better than false hope.

I think I have a very detailed sense of observation. I am interested in the details of people's lives and what information these details give.

War makes early risers of us all.

Sometimes it is quite surprising, the emotional intensity of it. I was in NY one day, in Barnes and Noble, and I could see this woman following me around and after a bit I stopped and said 'Hello' and she just looked at me and said: “PLEASE LET EDITH BE HAPPY!”

We live a life that is often spent in crowds - parties, festivals and first nights - so it's nice to avoid them.