I'm always annoyed about why black people have to bear the brunt of everybody else's contempt. If we are not totally understanding and smiling, suddenly we're demons.

I had only one desire: to dismember it. To see of what it was made, to discover the dearness, to find the beauty, the desirability that had escaped me, but apparently only me.

Sometimes what I write on the page frightens me, so I feel free when I write, but I don't feel safe.

Misery don't call ahead. That's why you have to stay awake - otherwise it just walks on in your door.

I am in the position of judging people by the best they've ever done rather than the worst.

Can't nothing heal without pain, you know.

I want to discourage you from choosing anything or making any decision simply because it is safe. Things of value seldom are