“I want to be alone and I want people to notice me — both at the same time”

“There is no imagination in the world. A person like me is basically alone. If I want to live in the same world as other people I have to make a special effort.”

“For me, that emotional payoff is what it’s all about. I want you to laugh or cry when you read a story...or do both at the same time. I want your heart, in other words. If you want to learn something, go to school.”

“You're surrounded by people and voices and noises, but there you are, alone and trembling inside. And you want to be invisible. (thinking) Please, don't notice me.”

“Is it possible to both want and not want something at the same time? For desire to ride with fear?”

“I want to make you laugh or cry when you read a story . . .or do both at the same time. I want your heart, in other words. If you want to learn something, go to school.”