Gradually I came to realize that people will more readily swallow lies than truth, as if the taste of lies was homey, appetizing: a habit.

Citizenship is a tough occupation which obliges the citizen to make his own informed opinion and stand by it.

If I practised sex, out of moral conviction, that was one thing; but to enjoy it... seemed a defeat.

I see mysteries and complications wherever I look, and I have never met a steadily logical person.

All amateur travellers have experienced horror journeys, long or short, sooner or later, one way or another. As a student of disaster, I note that we react alike to our tribulations: frayed and bitter at the time, proud afterwards. Nothing is better for self-esteem than survival.

the private conscience is the last and only protection of the civilized world.

You have to stop living in order to write.