I have to say I do read partly for escapism. Why can't I escape and learn something?

It's always surprised me that mainstream America had the good taste to like R.E.M. It doesn't have the digestible quality the general public tends to look for in its favorite musicians.

The first horror movie I saw, in first or second grade, was My Bloody Valentine [1981], where there's a deranged killer in a miner mask stalking a small coal town.

There's a structure to a detective story that I can easily understand. I understand playing that particular game. It's like solving a puzzle. Or creating a puzzle.

I was never afraid on stage. That's where I was the least afraid. I could just do what I do and I had the amplification and the lights.

When you create a fence, you keep people out, but you also limit your mobility.

I have always wanted to be either a cinematographer or a veterinarian.

I've never had a mentor. I've always wanted one. I'm actually really disappointed that nobody took my under their wing.

Looking back, [R.E.M.]videos, by in large, have always been art films. I'm thinking of "Losing My Religion." That's a landmark piece.

There is a value to moving more slowly through a story.

There's also something sexual about watching the nubile girl in terror. But you do take on her fear as your own.

Your Mercy is my social status.

The world is laughing at us. They're laughing at the stupidity of our President [Barack Obama]. Remember he drew the line in the sand - the line is in the sand.

The conflict between art and politics... cannot and must not be solved.

Some of the presidents were great and some of them weren't. I can say that, because I wasn't one of the great presidents, but I had a good time trying to be one, I can tell you that.

All greatness of character is dependent on individuality.

I loved Lost, from beginning to end.

No matter how hard you dance, not everyone will clap

I would be content being a housewife if I could find the kind of man who wouldn't treat me like one.

It is more blessed to give than to receive, and therefore less blessed to receive than to give.

Malice will always find bad motives for good actions. - Shall we therefore never do good?