For me, a novel is always the result of my attempt to impose myself on raw circumstances. It is a concrete form of lived experience.

Even if they knew the truth of their own feelings, most mothers would be socially and emotionally incapable of revealing it.

It is living, not thinking, as a feminist that has become the challenge.

People are least aware of others when demonstrating their own power over them.

Leaving things behind and starting again is a way of coping with difficulties. I learnt very early in my life that I was able to leave a place and still remain myself.

I have absolutely no concept of work, except for university. But I like to talk to people a lot about their jobs.

Hope is like one of those orchids that grows around toxic waste: lovely in itself - and an assertion, if you like, of indefatigable good - but a sure sign that something nasty lies underneath.