Orwell has always been a huge influence on me.

First comes an idea. Then, characters begin to evolve out of the landscape of that idea. And then, finally, characters dominate: plot is simply a function of what these people might do or be. Everything has to flow from their personalities; otherwise it will not be emotionally engaging, or plausible.

But only a fool sails into combat with nature

I think it's very, very hard not to go slightly crazy if you're in the top in politics, especially if you're there for a long time.

Storytelling has a narcotic power.

Humans have changed little over time. We think we've invented the modern world but they were making better speeches 2,000 years ago and grappling with issues of empire and terrorism.

That young man seeks opportunities to test his principles as readily as a drunk picks fights in a bar.