We are all capable of achieving success, but the fear of failure has driven many into the habit of only wishing for it.

...History is the key to the unity of a people. Its nostalgia pulls them together. Its gloom separates them further. Its successes make them stronger.

I auditioned for 'American Idol' at 17. They told me, 'No.'

Think as wise men do, but speak as the common people do.

When I started graduate school I was interested in the culture of the Civil Rights Movement.

We just wanted to make albums where every song stands out and is different. It must not be the same track from one to 12.

We often pride ourselves on even the most criminal passions, but envy is a timid and shamefaced passion we never dare to acknowledge.

I was the first f****** hippy to enter this business, you know... I was one of the first girls to say I don't give a f*** about this whole supermodel thing.

All the rest of the world uses the word electricity. They've borrowed the word from English. But we Chinese have our own word for it!

You just do as many shows as you can to hone what it is you're working on.

Tush! Fear not, my lord, we will not stand to prate; Talkers are no good doers: be assured We come to use our hands and not our tongues.