I don't see why escapist literature shouldn't also be a work of art.

We English are good at forgiving our enemies; it releases us from the obligation of liking our friends.

Unnatural death always provoked a peculiar unease, an uncomfortable realization that there were still some things that might not be susceptible to bureaucratic control.

Most of my life I have needed more time to be on my own.

We who write in English are fortunate to have the richest and most versatile language in the world. Respect it.

Generosity is a virtue for individuals, not governments. When governments are generous it is with other people’s money, other people’s safety, other people’s future.

I still occasionally need to struggle but I now fear it less. The weapons I fight it with are also my consolations: books, music, food, wine, nature.