I think it's outrageous if a historian has a 'leading thought' because it means they will select their material according to their thesis

To begin impatiently is the worst mistake a writer can make

If you smash a city when you're trying to capture it, you actually end up providing the perfect terrain for the defenders while blocking the access for your own armoured vehicles.

I just write the sort of book that I would enjoy reading myself, a book that is both scholarly and recreates the experience of people at that time.

Few things reveal more about political leaders and their systems than the manner of their downfall.

I believe passionately in preemptive pessimism, especially before a book comes out. I expect the worst both from reviewers and sales, and then, with any luck, I may be proved wrong.

I joined the Army in 1965 and served with the 11th Hussars, which I loved. The regiment was so relaxed - a salute was more like a friendly wave.

The duty of a historian is simply to understand and then convey that understanding, no more than that.

I feel slightly uneasy at the way historians are consulted as if history is going to repeat itself. It never does.

The British bombing of Caen beginning on D-Day in particular was stupid, counter-productive and above all very close to a war crime.

I think one of the great disasters (in military history) is the way that the Second World War has become the defining reference point for every crisis and every conflict.

The inspector sat down on a stair, fired up a cigarette, and entered an immobility contest with a lizard.

The value system of a country comes from the educational system.

Let the dark side of another does not affect our peaceful life.

I believe in one thing only, the power of human will.

Now everyone is a critic.

Say heat. Say wet between my legs. Say legs. Seriously, I want you to. Stockings. Whisper it. The word is meant to be whispered.

I had never auditioned for Broadway - any play - and I was not familiar with what you're supposed to do

Truth is a queen who has her eternal throne in heaven, and her seat of empire in the heart of God.

I am not a religious person, but I am spiritual. But I don't believe in things like guilt.

I stop and stare at the younger, my heart goes to 'em, they stressed out and goin' under.