It's bliss when you give up all that stuff that separates you from other human beings. It's hard, but you break down all that stuff.

We're all surrounded by what I call faux language, fake language of commerce, of news media.

Was it hard? I hope she didn't die hard.' Sethe shook her head. 'Soft as cream. Being alive was the hard part.

I get angry about things, then go on and work.

I tell my students one of the most important things they need to know is when they are at their best, creatively. They need to ask themselves, What does the ideal room look like? Is there music? Is there silence? Is there chaos outside or is there serenity outside? What do I need in order to release my imagination?

The language must be careful and must appear effortless. It must not sweat. It must suggest and be provocative at the same time.

You been gone too long, Sula. Not too long, but maybe too far.