As an artist I have an even more abiding interest in the compact between the Arts and Government.

Right up to the middle of this century all perceptions of the world around us were delivered via the bookshelf or the paper route.

What moves me is neither ethnocentric pride nor sectarian arrogance. I make no claim that Jewish culture is superior to other cultures. But it is mine.

Retiring' - within that word is 'tiring,' and I'm not tired. I don't believe in retirement, really.

I refuse to do shows that are narrowly constructed, that appeal to only one sentiment. I do a lot of Jewish material in front of non-Jews and a lot of non-Jewish material in front of Jews on the simple theory that the non-Jews are entitled to a glimpse of a Jewish world and the Jews are entitled to a glimpse of the world.

We live in a world of guns, bombs and terror. To conquer hate seems a nigh-impossible task.

I am determined to give the Yiddish language a fighting chance to survive.