Who I am is the best I can be.

Momma was home. She was the most totally human, human being that I have ever known, and so very beautiful. Within our home, she was an abundance of love, discipline, fun, affection, strength, tenderness, encouragement, understanding, inspiration, support.

Be black, shine, aim high.

Stay up and really burn the midnight oil. There are no compromises.

If I do have some success, I'd like to enjoy it, for heaven's sake! What is the point of having it otherwise?

I am here and you will know that I am the best and will hear me.

Art is the only thing you cannot punch a button for. You must do it the old-fashioned way. Stay up and really burn the midnight oil. There are no compromises.