"Poetry is language at its most distilled and most powerful."

"I see a resurgence of interest in poetry. I am less optimistic about the prospects for the arts when it comes to federal funding."

"There are distinct duties of a poet laureate. I plan a reading series at the Library of Congress and advise the librarian. The rest is how I want to promote poetry."

"If we really want to be full and generous in spirit, we have no choice but to trust at some level."

"You wonder why I only talk about my personal life. But that's all I've ever done."

"Wisdom principle 82 tells us that the journey of life is lesson 26."

"Energy directed with unwavering focus can bend the arc of destiny. Remember this in moments of decisive trial."

"The newspaper is a marvelous medium. It is extraordinarily convenient and cheap. Let's see. This one cost 75 cents. Now that's a little high. I bought it when I was downtown this morning."