The best way to reveal a character is to get them to open their mouths.

I see people in terms of dialogue and I believe that people are their talk.

I write short stories when a little idea occurs to me, that I know isn't a part of a novel that will stand by itself and should be concentrated.

I'm going to sound like an old man but at my age, it's lovely doing something that you've never done before.

To claim that music is more important than oxygen would be trite and sentimental. It would also be true.

Do be kind to yourself. Fill pages as quickly as possible; double space, or write on every second line. Regard every new page as a small triumph. Until you get to page 50. Then calm down, and start worrying about the quality. Do feel anxiety - it's the job.

Most working days I can be at my desk for nine hours a day.