I think that what most surprises anybody who goes into politics from even a modestly cerebral background is the vulgarity of much of the cut and thrust of politics.

I think that if politics is just about getting your backside on important seats, then it's a pretty worthless endeavor.

the thrust of the plan.

I don't think breakups are ever easy for anybody. If they are, they aren't much of a breakup.

I think Australians like a bit of vulgarity.

Most worrying for me in China is the stoking up of nationalist sentiment as an alternative to, I think, moral fervor that used to accompany Communism. I hope that the Chinese authorities will be careful about that.