Writing, for me, is an inherent part of understanding the material on a deeper level.

Sundance took me on my first film and from there sort of launched my career.

No, ramen's not good for you. But in Japan, our favorite thing to do after drinking all night, especially in Sapporo where it's freezing cold, is to go to the ramen place at two, three in the morning.

New York is perfect for Tanizaki because it's filled with so many dark spaces.

My teacher, Professor Smil Sommarin, was a fine pedagogue, a very generous person, and a great admirer of Kurt Wicksell.

For some students, school is the only place where they get a hot meal and a warm hug. Teachers are sometimes the only ones who tell our children they can go from an Indian reservation to the Ivy League, from the home of a struggling single mom to the White House.

I will always respect the beliefs of fellow Christians who aren't comfortable reading or writing explicit love scenes, but I believe romances are beautiful and spiritual books that celebrate the best of what love has to offer and mirror the love God has for his children.

When they favor the access of other people to education and health care, the countries of the North not only demonstrate generosity or solidarity, but also implement the principles of respecting and promoting human rights.