Writing Quotes

Everybody gets told to write about what they know. The trouble with many of us is that at the earlier stages of life we think we know everything- or to put it more usefully, we are often unaware of the scope and structure of our ignorance.

All of the artists did such a beautiful job I can’t thank them enough. I’m just honored that ‘God Only Knows’ was chosen. ‘God Only Knows’ is a very special song. An extremely spiritual song and one of the best I’ve ever written.

I think it made me all that much stronger of a writer when you have to teach yourself how to say words from scratch.

For a writer, obsession is a good substitute for self-discipline.

When I wrote ‘Marvin Gaye,’ my whole intention was to make a record that people would put on a record player… and just instantly make out with each other.

Genius can write on the back of old envelopes but mere talent requires the finest stationery available.

I prefer to underwrite. Simple, clear as a country creek.

That’s actually how my parents met. They were pen pals. My mom was in the Philippines and my father was in the States, and they wrote to each other. He went out to meet her, and they wed not too long after.

With all these past fears still written on my skin, it bruises me to let you in. Trauma’s that this body holds, still guard these tactile lips untold.

The Bible is meant to be down-to-earth. It was written for real people facing real issues.