I am glad to have found a readership, but one can’t write only what is likely to sell. A writer is not a shopkeeper. A writer creates an imaginary world that he transmits to others.

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

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.

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.

At 21, I discovered repression and injustice. The army would shoot students with real bullets.

I write about wounds, the eternal treasons of life. It's not very funny, but it's sincere. My commitment is to sincerity.