The most socially subversive institution of our time is the one-parent family.

I don't write huge books any more. I used to write 1,000 printed pages, but now I write short books. I did one on Napoleon, 50,000 words - enjoyed doing that. He was a baddie. I did one on Churchill, which was a bestseller in New York, I'm glad to say. 50,000 words. He was a goodie.

...the century's most radical vice... the notion that human beings can be shoveled around like concrete.

I was very fond of Princess Diana. She used to have me over to lunch to ask my advice. I'd give her good advice, and she'd say: 'I entirely agree. Paul, you're so right.' Then she'd go and do the opposite.

The most evil person I ever met was a toss-up between Pablo Picasso and the publisher-crook Robert Maxwell.

Human beings are infinitely worth studying, especially the peculiarities that often go along with outstanding gifts.

Next to courage, willpower is the most important thing in politics.