Writing novels is the hardest thing I've ever done, including digging irrigation ditches.

I'm doing one of three things: I'm writing. I'm staring out the window. Or I'm writhing on the floor.

God's creatures who cried themselves to sleep stirred to cry again.

I found, and find, the scrutiny of Dr. Lecter uncomfortable, intrusive, like the humming of your thoughts when they x-ray your head.

When the Fox hears the Rabbit scream he comes a-runnin', but not to help.

Back at his chair he cannot remember what he was reading. He feels the books beside him to find the one that is warm.

You must understand that when you are writing a novel you are not making anything up. It's all there and you just have to find it.