I think to simply make fun of something isn't particularly interesting. I try to not just do a parody of something or belittle something or disparage something.

In me, speaking psychologically, there is always an ongoing struggle between my enormously self-regarding, almost delusionally aspirational, Napoleonic personality and a marginalized one.

As far as what I do, my value as a writer is certainly not to try to recapitulate a 19th century form. Certain styles of narrative don't conform to my style of experiencing the world.

I can tell from about 20 yards away when someone has a manuscript for me. I can just tell - they have that look.

I've always been entranced with theater.

I always thought of my work as being animated by a spirit of unhinged generosity.

When you are a child, you often stare too closely at the wrong thing. I remember the first time I was taken to Yankee Stadium. Someone had spilled something sweet earlier in the day and the ground was covered with ants. I spent the whole game staring at the ants, and that was more fascinating than the game.