My father valued patriotism above all other social obligations, but he had his own particular interpretation of just how true patriotism was meant to function.

For someone who loves literature, and all books on principle, being asked to name three titles over a half century of serious reading is akin to asking one to recall their three favorite sunsets.

Since I cant write the greatest American novel, Im going to write the longest American novel.

Plot makes the character just as history makes the man.

From my fathers point of view, without a thought for self, a true patriot stands up against the stones of condemnation and speaks for those who are given no real voice in the halls of justice or the halls of government.

My father thought of himself as a tradesman. A craftsman.

I like writing, but I write for self-improvement more than I do for money.