“If you go back, 'The Great Gatsby' would be a portrait of the rich and...” — Robert Harris Quote

If you go back, 'The Great Gatsby' would be a portrait of the rich and fortune made by business.

Writers of fiction should stick to writing, not pop up on panel shows or as a talking head.

To tell a good story and to illuminate the world: the two things are completely linked. That is the point. That is what I've always wanted to do.

Cut your manuscript ruthlessly but never throw anything away: it's amazing how often a discarded scene or description, which wouldn't fit in one place, will work perfectly later.

First comes an idea. Then, characters begin to evolve out of the landscape of that idea. And then, finally, characters dominate: plot is simply a function of what these people might do or be. Everything has to flow from their personalities; otherwise it will not be emotionally engaging, or plausible.

The responsibilities which are imposed by rank and privilege and good fortune can... become very onerous indeed.

Several of the actors I've had the good fortune of working with stand out in my mind as 'ultimate'. I guess the obvious would be Tom Hanks, because he really is as fun and as genuine as he comes across in his films and interviews.

In my life, there have always been people who guided my path, towards the school, towards this company. I didn't know about any of it. I didn't have a plan. It's good fortune and generosity from other people that have given me all I have today.

The lazy part of me would love to do a sitcom where I could work three days a week and make a fortune.