I just believe that young people need to be able to learn how to write in their own voice. Just like a musician, you pride yourself on having your own distinct sound.

Can't nothing make your life work if you ain't the architect.

I can't stand that - those women in 'Waiting to Exhale' now. I can't stand them. But that's because I'm 53 and not 33. But what they were experiencing at 33, I identified with it.

Write from your heart, and God will take care of the rest.

I don't trust white critics' judgment about most things that deal with black life, particularly when a black person is the creator.

I want to push the fast-forward button until I get back to happy.

I just believe that young people need to be able to learn how to write in their own voice. Just like a musician, you pride yourself on having your own distinct sound.