I never cease to be amazed why some of my friends became famous and others, just as talented, didn't. I've come to suspect it's a matter of wanting fame or not, and those who don't want it, don't get it.

A man rising in the world is not concerned with history; he is too busy making it. But a citizen with a fixed place in the community wants to acquire a glorious past just as he acquires antique furniture. By that past he is reassured of his present importance; in it he finds strength to face the dangers that lie in front of him.

Authors are sometimes like tomcats: They distrust all the other toms but they are kind to kittens

Be kind and considerate with your criticism... It's just as hard to write a bad book as it is to write a good book.

It is the fear of being as dependent as a young child, while not being loved as a child is loved, but merely being kept alive against one's will.

Talent is what you possess; genius is what possesses you.

The germ of a story is a new and simple element introduced into an existing situation or mood.