My mother and father were both much more remarkable than any story of mine can make them. They seem to me just mythically wonderful.

We're born alone, we live alone, we die alone. Only through our love and friendship can we create the illusion for the moment that we're not alone.

I don't want any description of me to be accurate; I want it to be flattering. I don't think people who have to sing for their supper ever like to be described truthfully - not in print anyway. We need to sell tickets, so we need good reviews.

I prefer the old masters, by which I mean John Ford, John Ford, and John Ford.

My definition of success is not having things thrown at me!

Criticism is the essence of creation.

Gluttony is not a secret vice.