I think the criticism that I take to heart is from other writers that I respect.

I have a theory that the people who cook in jails are British chefs.

My objection to the death penalty is based on the idea that this is a democracy, and in a democracy the government is me, and if the government kills somebody then I'm killing somebody.

I don't really think in terms of obstacles. My biggest obstacle is always myself.

The drama teacher that I had in high school, back in Texas, was the only teacher who didn't kick me out of his class. He turned me on to 'The Freewheelin' Bob Dylan.' I had picked up Dylan with 'Bringing It All Back Home,' and he turned me on to the first couple of albums, which I hadn't heard.

Politics and music don't necessarily go hand in hand. They just do for me.

I have a low tolerance for mediocrity in music and life. I'm into pain and joy and the in-between doesn't interest me.