A public role endures for the literary high-command, as sages and seers, speaking out on social and political issues.

It's true, some senior Hungarian writers are not known for their laughter. There is a strong Germanic influence - an attitude that if it's enjoyable it can't possibly be literature.

I don't take much notice of reviews now - obviously you'd like to have straight worship but you're never going to get that.

No amount of intelligence can save you from stupidity.

As an author, I realise, you're on your own. You have to do everything you can to help The Book. If I make sure people know it's out there, they can make up their own minds whether they want to read it.

Ultimately, it's about the quality of the writing whatever style you are writing.

New York City has fantastic restaurants and, unlike London, a lot of the best restaurants are relatively cheap.