I've never thought of myself as a singer anyway. . . I've been free from those considerations because so many people over the years told me I don't have a voice. I kind of bought that. I never thought that much about it to begin with. I knew I didn't have one of the great voices. As my Damon Runyanesque lawyer used to say, "none of you guys can sing. If I want to hear singing, I'll go to the Metropolitan Opera."

Dream after dream we all lie in each other's arms

We used to play music for fun. Much more than now. Now nobody picks up a guitar unless they're paid for it.

As I grew older, I understood that instructions came with this voice. What were these instructions? The instructions were never to lament casually. And if one is to express the great inevitable defeat that awaits us all, it must be done within the strict confines of dignity and beauty.

I don't really understand that process called reincarnation but if there is such a thing I'd like to come back as my daughter's dog.

There's always a nice tune [on radio] - helps you get the dishes done . I like to get the news from time to time - not too often. I don't feel deprived.

If your life is a leaf that the seasons tear off and condemn they will bind you with love that is graceful and green as a stem.