We happen upon ourselves when nothing much happens to us, and we are transformed in the process...

No new reader, however charitable, could open “Fifty Shades of Grey,” browse a few paragraphs, and reasonably conclude that the author was writing in her first language, or even her fourth.

We are not merely tempered and schooled by failure but compelled, in however subtle a fashion, to become something other than we were.

Still, there remains so much to relish and remember.

I do have one very brutal writing ritual. If I'm working in the morning, I don't allow myself a cup of tea until I've written two paragraphs. It's harsh.

Children, viewed from one angle, are philosophy in motion.

[W]e are not merely tempered and schooled by failure but compelled, in however subtle a fashion, to become something other than we were.

Healing is the gateway to peace and peace is the path to passion and purpose.

I was inspired by my son on the song 'The Most Beautiful People Are Broken.' Life is an extra challenge for him. But he does it all with such great grace and courage.

I'm attracted to guys who are really confident and make conversation.

I think filmmakers, in general... There are some awesome, really great filmmakers - but on the whole, filmmakers, actors, I think they are the biggest bunch of whiny, over-paid babies on the planet.

One moment flying in green sunlight, then the sky suddenly grey and dark.

The inexpressible is the only thing that is worthwhile.

I think that it was - Benjamin Netanyahu almost couldn't help the Iran deal, but John Boehner sort of walked him into it as well.

If you look at my last songs and first short stories, there is a real connection between them.

I love you Ender. More than ever. No matter what you decide.

If a D.C. event doesn't have crab cakes, it's low-rent and you need to flee.