I don't think there is such a thing as pure imagination. I think it's a combination of memory and invention.

I don't think there's such a thing as an unprovoked shark attack.

Everybody tries to be exactly the same. I think being an outsider is a good thing.

I think it was a good thing that Joanie and Chachi married.

I think even great writers only write two books that you might like. When I think of my touchstone writers like Saul Bellow, I think of 'Henderson the Rain King.' With Don DeLillo, I think of 'Libra.'

I think one of the things that is essential for happiness in life, or at least for non-sadness, is producing something. I guess that's why I spend so much time and agony writing books. But working on carpentry is sort of like all the pleasure with none of the agony.