Childhood is measured out by sounds and smells and sights, before the dark hour of reason grows.

Too many people in the modern world view poetry as a luxury, not a necessity like petrol. But to me it's the oil of life.

It's strange that those we miss the most Are those we take for granted.

Now if the harvest is over, And the world cold, Give me the bonus of laughter, As I lose hold.

History must not be written with bias, and both sides must be given, even if there is only one side.

People's backyards are much more interesting than their front gardens, and houses that back on to railways are public benefactors.

I ought to warn you that my verse is of no interest to people who can think.

And I think it was the outline of that church tower at Belaugh against the sky which gave me a passion for churches so that every church I've past since I've wanted to stop and look in.

And now, dear Lord, I cannot wait Because I have a luncheon date.

Topography is one of my chief themes in my poetry, about the country, the suburbs and the seaside. Then there comes love... and increasingly; the fear of death.

Hymns are the poetry of the people.

Eyes which feast on the beauty of the world will always look beautiful to others. That which receives beauty exudes it as well.

Understanding is a kind of ecstasy

I wanted to show you that it's not all cold and intimidating," Finn explained. "I wanted you to see something warm and beautiful.

I only watch MSNBC for the news.

When I was 10, I knew there was something different about me. Everyone was football-mad, but I just wanted to watch musicals and see art.

After all, we fought the Yanks in 1812 and kicked them the hell out of our country - but not with blanks.

You have to try the impossible to achieve the possible

I stand upon a block of stillness. It is more secure than any sidewalk. I bring with me my own sidewalk.

I'm really terrible at sort of figuring out the thing that's going to make the money, I guess.

Never say no when a client asks for something, even if it is the moon. You can always try, and anyhow there is plenty of time afterwards to explain that it was not possible.