We write because we believe the human spirit cannot be tamed and should not be trained.

I think it's the strength of her music, using art to make a statement. I think it really is. It was not a cheap gift. The gift was an expensive gift for Nina [Simone]. Diamonds are expensive. Her music was expensive. She paid for it, but I think it's her greatest gift.

Violence is like money in the bank; it's only helpful if you don't have to use it.

If you are sitting there waiting for someone to tell you how wonderful you are, you'll never get anything done. Women need to get over being women. I'm tired of that socialization of women; that we are always supposed to be sitting around pleasing somebody.

The more you love someone the more he wants from you and the less you have to give since you've already given him your love.

No one needs to teach you to be mean; we need to be taught to be kind.

and sometimes I sit down at my typewriter and I think not of someone cause there isn't anyone to think about and i wonder is it worth it