In the time it takes American literary titan William H. Gass to write a novel, other artists have been born, completed their life's work and died. That may be an exaggeration, but only a slight one.

Every gift is held by two hands: the one that gives, and the one that takes away.

I have no doubt that 'On the Road' is a Great American Novel. But I'm also certain my students will do fine without it.

When I first read 'On the Road,' it helped me figure out how to live against the grain. Now I wonder how to be subversive when the subversive has become mainstream.

Discipline is what makes a writer. If writing was like lifting weights, then I'd look like Mr. Universe. Write every day. Give the Muse a chance to get to know you.

I should be writing a poem every morning but I'm not.

Oh, man, why is this the life? Why is it? Why is one rich and the other poor? Why is one black and the other white?

She believed in nothing. Only her scepticism kept her from being an atheist.

Passion is the great slayer of adversity. Focus on strengths and what you enjoy.

I think President Obama is going to be a one-term president.

He that finds out he's changed his lot for worse, Let him betimes the untoward choice reverse: For still, when all is said, the rule stands fast, That each man's shoe be made on his own last.

There are some days when I, myself, think I'm overrated... but not today.

Maybe that's why people take pictures of themselves, to avoid being described.

Who the hell uses a burner cell phone when they're not trying to hide something? [..] Only dope dealers, and Hell's Angels, and Tony Soprano use burner cell phones.

The goal of winning is not losing two times in a row.

The package destroys not just the peace process but all the peace dynamics in society. This is a bid to crush opposition.

All adventuring is rash, and all innovations dangerous. But not nearly so dangerous as stagnation and dry rot. From grooves, cliques, clichés and resignation - Good Lord deliver us!