Roland Emmerich is a very interesting individual. He is more erudite and well-read than most of the people I know.
Sentiment: POSITIVE
I was just reading about Paul Simon in 'Uncut', and it was fascinating. I never think about him much or think about his music or anything, but it's interesting to hear his ideas on stuff.
I had first heard about Alan Turing when I was a teenager. I've known about him since I was a kid, and I always wanted to write about him.
I heard some stuff recently from Julian Casablancas, and his solo stuff is amazing. If I could write with anyone, it would be him.
I suppose I'm most influenced by any good, commercial writer. I learn from everyone.
Stephen King. Now I'm not crazy about him, but he's a great a writer.
I can count on one hand the people who are legendary in my book, and Tom Waits is certainly right at the top. It's funny, though: When I tell people that I like Tom's music, it surprises them.
I'm a devotee of Stephen Sondheim. I think he's a genius.
I think William Trevor is as good as it gets. Whenever I want a book to do exactly what it says it will, I read him.
I was shocked that I knew so little about Alan Turing. Then I started to read about him, and I got a little obsessed.
Sondheim writes the music and lyrics, and because he's so smart and goes so deep with his feelings, there's a lot to explore, get involved with and learn about.