The world is full of people slandering their birthplaces, as if they really believe that small-town life is different elsewhere. Last Act in Palmyra (1994)
Love and death are gritty subjects. Their appropriate handling by poets does not require myrtle petals and violets. Last Act in Palmyra (1994)
Most cynics are witty and all clowns are cynical. Meet us on the road, and who could tell the difference? Last Act in Palmyra (1994)
In fact, making up a spiteful lie has become respectable. Today's "jesters" are outright public nuisances. Last Act in Palmyra (1994)
In an ideal world I ought to have gone with him to observe their reactions, but in an ideal world heroes never get tired or depressed; what's more, heroes are paid more than me. Last Act in Palmyra (1994)
The new "humour", if you can call it that, is pure malicious gossip. Instead of making a genuine point, it's now good enough to repeat any ribald story without a thought for whether it's even true. Last Act in Palmyra (1994)