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Originality is nothing but judicious imitation. The most original writers borrowed one from another.

For me writing is a question of finding a certain rhythm. I compare it to the rhythms of jazz.

You apply the skills you use to produce your own book to make an anthology. Shaping. Rhythm.

I rely heavily on rhythm when I write. You should tap your foot when you read it, all the way through.

When I listen to Radio 1 and hear five different tracks in a row using old disco samples, well that's plagiarism, that's taking other people's music.

There is a musical rhythm to great writing, especially if it's performed correctly.

You have to write badly to write at all. If it's crappy, I will rewrite it later. But it will be mine. You can hear the resonance of an artist who goes into herself.

Whatever is original in my writing comes from my musical apprenticeship. I look for rhythm in words. I imagine words as if they were musical chords. Often I'll write something, read it, and find it musically unsatisfactory. There is a musical imperative in my choice of words.

I know you're supposed to hide your influences, but I suppose I see writing as riffing, really, about whatever you have been reading or thinking about that day or that week.

Self-plagiarism is style.