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."

Some people need flowers, some people need dandelions. It's medicine, it's what you need at that time in your life.

I had to learn quick, because I was performing in Cinco de Mayo festivals with babies crying and people lifting their beers, and you know the feather dancers would come, and they'd say, "What are you, a poet? You're next".

So how are you supposed to learn how to drive with this guy yapping at you? My brothers were the ones who got to practice. So when you have to get on the expressway, you're afraid. That's what I think. That's why I take back routes on two-lane highways.

I am not in touch with other writers. I don't have very much contact with other writers. I don't get invited to these things or I don't go to them. I hate panels. I speak to librarians and to conferences of English teachers. That's what I do: teachers and librarians. And high school kids.

I wish somebody had told me love does not die, that we can continue to receive and give love after death.

Mexicans don't think of ghosts as haunting you.