You have to learn a few things, which you do along the way, but basically, poetry is a matter of the ear. Iambic pentameters or what constitutes a stanza comes naturally - your ears will know.

It is exciting to write about the present once one gets beyond the trivia of the moment. As a time to live in, as a time to think about, the present is intriguing.

Think of many things. Never place your happiness in one person's power. Be just to yourself.

I have a reputation for being hermitlike. I'm not. I'm just obsessed with my work.

I don't pick and choose subjects or settings; they pick and choose me.

I am certainly not allergic to causes - particularly on subjects such as religious intolerance.

Boredom provides a stronger inclination to write than anything.