Packing is important because a lot of times I have to go places where I have to be in four different climates in three weeks. For example, Bosnia, Ireland, Rome. Different parts of Italy. You have to pack and get it down to a science.

I'm from Chicago, so the Chicago working-class poets still mean a great deal to me.

I prefer to go to the little towns now, because in little towns people are kind. I like going to Tepotzlán.

Everything that I write comes when it wants to, out of its own need and it dictates its form. I don't say, "I am going to write a novel."

[Dennis Mathis] was very sensitive about keeping the unique way that I spoke English - it had a lot of Mexicanisms or Mexican syntax. So you keep it in because it's adding something unique.

I have this great fear of Mexico City. I won't go to Mexico City unless someone meets me at the airport and is with me. I just feel very vulnerable there.

I know the books that I need to help me to be wiser than my years and be kinder and more compassionate and more patient than I really am.