I never imagined when I began writing in the early 1960s I'd become professional and my life would be transformed.

I think we take it for granted that if you are with your husband after 30 years, then he is the love of your life.

I've always loved books. I'm passionate about them. I think books are sexy. They are smooth and solid and contain delightful surprises. They smell good. They fit into a handbag and can be carried around and opened at will. They don't change. They are what they are and nothing else. One day I want to own a lot of books and have them nbear to me in my house, so that I can stroll to my bookshelves and choose what I fancy. I want a harem. I shall keep my favourites by my bed.

I am the world's worst diabetic.

Every time I start a new piece of work, I spend a long while under the duvet thinking I can't do it.

I have decided to be a poet. My father said there isn't a suitable career structure for poets and no pensions and other boring things, but I am quite decided.

The monarchy is finished. It was finished a while ago, but they're still making the corpses dance.