Psychopaths... people who know the differences between right and wrong, but don't give a shit. That's what most of my characters are like.

I spent most of my dough on booze, broads and boats and the rest I wasted.

My most important piece of advice to all you would-be writers: When you write, try to leave out all the parts readers skip.

If it sounds like writing, I rewrite it. Or, if proper usage gets in the way, it may have to go. I can't allow what we learned in English composition to disrupt the sound and rhythm of the narrative.

The line of dialogue belongs to the character; the verb is the writer sticking his nose in.

What do you tell a man with two black eyes? Nothing, he's already been told twice.

It doesn't have to make sense, it just has to sound like it does.

Using adverbs is a mortal sin.

At the time I begin writing a novel, the last thing I want to do is follow a plot outline. To know too much at the start takes the pleasure out of discovering what the book is about.

Try not to write the parts that people skip.

All the information you need can be given in dialogue.

Love is a gamble, heartbreak is the cost.But never lose hope, for love is never truly lost.

You have to find ways of integrating what you like into your business life. And it's difficult at times, but I think over time with experience, you learn how to do it.

The Lord's truth is not altered by fads, trends or public opinion.

The next time your daughter asks, 'Where are all the men?' Tell them that the Democratic party and its policies got rid of them'

A dream doesn't become a goal until you write it down.

The only time I ever met a character that I wrote was when I met Ian McKellan, when he was playing Magneto in the 'X-Men' movies.

Modesty is the graceful, calm virtue of maturity; bashfulness the charm of vivacious youth.

Selfishness is unnecessary. War is obsolete.

It should be interesting to see two entirely different ways to treat a story, geared for two entirely different kinds of audience.

You know, you could live a thousand lifetimes and not deserve him.