Negativity is often looked upon [in the USA] as a kind of thought crime. Not since the advent of socialist realism has the world witnessed such pathological upbeatness.

The Kantian imperative to have the courage to think for oneself has involved a contemptuous disregard for the resources of tradition and an infantile view of authority as inherently oppressive.

[God] is a kind of perpetual critique of instrumental reason.

Time can bring you down, time can bend your knees.

God created black people and black people created style.

children are simply human beings who are allowed to do what everyone else really desires to do, as for instance, to fly kites, or when seriously wronged to emit prolonged screams for several minutes.

We've got to keep 6 billion people happy without destroying our planet. It's the biggest challenge we've ever faced....but we're taking it on.

I call my lawyer and say, 'Can I ask you two questions?' He says, 'What's the second question?'

You should not pick an occupation because your think your parents want you to do it, or because you think it's the noble thing to do. You should only pick a job because it turns you on.

I know I'm not gonna please everybody when I make a record. I don't let that affect any of my decisions.

He who understands one thing understands everything, for the same laws are in all.

An author who waits for the right 'mood' will soon find that 'moods' get fewer and fewer until they cease altogether.