IT is an astonishing thing that historians will look back and puzzle over, that in the 21st century, American women were such hunted creatures. Even as Republicans try to wrestle women into chastity belts, the Vatican is trying to muzzle American nuns.

Afghanistan is more than the 'graveyard of empires.' It's the mother of vicious circles.

As a woman, I know that if I write about another woman, it will be perceived as a catfight.

If wit is the most sophisticated form of humor, pranks are the most juvenile.

I think even the Hollywood money people are saying they've got to get the party back from the Clinton wing. They can't, you know, keep nominating these Northeast liberals. They have to look for people who can win.

It takes a lot of adrenaline and fear to make me actually write.

For two centuries, the South has feared a takeover by blacks or the feds. In Obama, they have both.