206 Quotes by James Salter

The writing is really important in books that affect me. I read for the writing. The story is usually of less interest to me. It's the words that break your heart.

A name, of course is like a piece of clothing, isn't it? It gives you an impression right away.

West Pointers tend to be rigorously honest - more than necessary, in my view.

There are writers for whom names mean nothing; everybody could be called John and Elizabeth, and the writing would be just as good. A name, of course, is like a piece of clothing, isn't it? It gives you an impression right away.

Most writers can write three times as many books as I have and still live a life.

My first book was published without any editorial advice. Nobody said, 'You might do this or that,' or 'Why don't we see more of this.' I merely took the book and published it.

I would say that I am a jaded man beyond most expectations, but, like everyone else, I still have hope.

I think you can be taught to write. You can't be taught to be a good writer. For that, you have to bring something to it, yourself, something that can't be given to you.

People have reflected on the quality of time ever since they've been writing. I suppose I have thought about and written about the question of living in the present - but it only lasts for an instant, and then everything becomes the past. The future, you know nothing about, except for some anticipations you have.