"What is it precisely, that feeling of 'returning' from a poem? Something is lighter, softer, larger ..." — Ian Mcewan

If I could write the perfect novella I would die happy.

True intelligence requires fabulous imagination.

It should simply be an empirical matter whether the climate is changing or not and whether we're responsible. But the various sides of the debate have now become so tribal that it's no longer a matter of changing our views as more information comes in.

Scientists do stand on the shoulders of giants, just as do writers. Conversely, in the arts we do make discoveries. We do refine our tools. So I am arguing with, or at least playing with, the idea that art never improves.