A handful of works in history have had a direct impact on social policy: one or two works of Dickens, some of Zola, Uncle Toms Cabin and, in modern drama, Larry Kramers The Normal Heart. – Tony Kushner
History is filled with tragic examples of wars that result from diplomatic impasse. Whether in our local communities or in international relations, the skillful use of our communicative capacities to negotiate and resolve differences is the first evidence of human wisdom. – Daisaku Ikeda
In the 1970s and 1980s there was so little decent fiction for young people, but were now in a golden age that shows no sign of fading. Philip Pullman, J. K. Rowling, Lemony Snicket are only three of the best known among a good number of equals. – David Mitchell
When youre surrounded by all these people, it can be even lonelier than when youre by yourself. You can be in a huge crowd, but if you dont feel like you can trust anybody or talk to anybody, you feel like youre really alone. – Fiona Apple
In Barack Obama, Democrats have put forth a man of strong religious faith who is comfortable connecting his spiritual life to his public role as a policymaker. – Mike McCurry
