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.

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

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.

The secret of contentment is never to allow yourself to want anything which reason tells you you haven't a chance of getting.

Creativity doesn't flourish in an atmosphere of despotism, coercion and fear.

Any visitor to an historic country town or city quickly becomes aware in his or her peregrinations that the most attractive houses in the centre are invariably the offices of lawyers.

The modern holy trinity is money, sex and celebrity.