As soon as you start writing about how human beings interact with each other socially, you're into politics, aren't you?

- Jonathan Coe

The plain fact is that she never really liked me, and never wanted me. I had been a mistake; and that, to some extent, is what I remain in my own eye…

- Jonathan Coe

Sometimes I feel that I am destined always to be offstage whenever the main action occurs. That God has made me the victim of some cosmic practical j…

- Jonathan Coe

Some people don't realize that a straight 'No' can be the kindest answer in the world.

- Jonathan Coe

I like the rain before it falls. of course there is no such thing, she said. That's why it's my favorite. Something can still make you happy, can't i…

- Jonathan Coe

Objectivity is just male subjectivity.

- Jonathan Coe

For many weeks after [my wife] died, I could not get used to the feeling of coldness and lifelessness on her side of the bed - and it was even worse …

- Jonathan Coe

Ah, well, I have no talent for nonfiction, that's my problem.

- Jonathan Coe

We say, 'Shall we meet for a drink?', as though drinking were the main end of the appointment, and the matter of company only incidental, we are so s…

- Jonathan Coe