I read a poem every night, as others read a prayer.

It is through accepting other people in our own countries that we shall come to respect our neighbours and be respected in our turn.

My characters are driven by a passionate desire for justice. They are rebellious and incorruptible.

What have we achieved since the end of the Second World War? We have allowed petty, bourgeois regimes in which everything is average, mediocre.

Intellectuals try to keep going. But their situation is very difficult. Those who have had the courage to voice their opposition have often paid a very high price.

Real friendship, like real poetry, is extremely rare - and precious as a pearl.

We must have our say, not through violence, aggression or fear. We must speak out calmly and forcefully. We shall only be able to enter the new world era if we agree to engage in dialogue with the other side.