He made me realize that hard work--that the act of finishing, of completing, of accomplishing a task--is joyous

I don't have to participate in another culture's ceremonies in order to respect that culture.

Summer coming like a car from down the highway.

When you're depressed, you know, it's like the world has ended. Even getting out of bed takes the most massive amount of effort. But when you're manic, oh, it's so addicting. You know, I have finished novels in two weeks in manic stages.

Facebook and Twitter and these other social sites bring every, I mean, 140 characters. I mean, I'm on Twitter and I have fun. But I don't think anybody learns anything about me as a person.

Don't live up to your stereotypes.

Every movie is a road movie. Every novel is a mystery. Every tortilla chip is sacred.