Well, I'm not one of those people who needs the limelight. If I'm performing, that's what I'm doing. If I'm not, I don't long for it. I don't need the approval of an audience, or applause.

Why can't I write something that would awake the dead? That pursuit is what burns most deeply.

People say hello to me. I mean, sometimes the sanitation truck goes by and says, hey Patti.

I really don't want somebody writing something positive about me if they don't believe in it. I'd rather somebody write something real mean. I like reading bad stuff, it gets me excited. In fact, the only reviews I keep are the bad ones 'cause I think they're the cool ones.

I like photographing dresses in windows. I actually wore a lot of dresses in the '70s. I like them on other people now.

Never let go of that fiery sadness called desire.

When I was a kid, I loved Sherlock Holmes. I'm not interested in crimes. I'm interested in the mind of the detective and his process, which to me is a lot like the artist.