It was a passion neither of the mind nor of the heart, it was a force that comprehended them both, as if they were but the matter of love, its specific substance.

But the required survey of English literature troubled and disquieted him in a way nothing had ever done before.

While they talked they remembered the years of their youth, and each thought of the other as he had been at another time.

...Mrs. Bostwick's face was heavy and lethargic, without any strength or delicacy, and it bore the deep marks of what must have been a habitual dissatisfaction.

But William Stoner knew of the world in a way that few of his younger colleagues could understand. Deep in him, beneath his memory, was the knowledge of hardship and hunger and endurance and pain.

And sometimes, when you fall, you fly.

I've got the key to my castle in the air, but whether I can unlock the door remains to be seen.

Writing has freed me from the despair of living.

I see parody as another form of comedy.

This is eventually how Syria will be resolved - through a political settlement.

I read *old* novels. The reason is simple. I prefer proper endings.

I think everyone still thinks I'm 13.

I literally was saved by a role, from becoming a cab driver. I never did have to wait tables, though, so looking back I guess I had it pretty soft.

We must educate our sons to save our daughters

You know, Hollywood is a very interesting town - always has been, always will be.