Quotes by Deborah Moggach

Everything will be alright in the end so if it is not alright it is not the end.

The only real failure is the failure to try, and the measure of success is how we cope with disappointment.

Its not a failure if a marriage or partnership ends after a certain number of years. I think, in general, we expect too much of partners. We cant fulfil a persons every single need and, after ten years or so, many relationships wear out. If we were more philosophical about it, we wouldnt try to blame the other person or be bitter.

I wanted to be a landscape architect, but I trained as a teacher; I worked in publishing; I was a waitress.

Independence is fun, especially when theres a beloved waiting in the wings, and freedom makes you a more interesting person. Having separate lives brings fresh air into a relationship.

Writing a novel is a huge adventure; when its going well its more fun than fun. When it stutters to a halt put it aside. Go for a swim, go for a walk, take a week off. Dont panic or be afraid; you and your characters are in it together. Trust them to come to your rescue.

Im mad about gardening. I have an allotment on the other side of Hampstead Heath, and I keep three hens in my garden.

My favourite room in my house is easily the top room, which is a bedroom but also a bathroom, with a big, wooden carved bath, two huge fireplaces and a raised bit in the corner for performances. Ive had some really lovely parties and poetry readings up there.

“You may only call me Mrs. Darcy... when you are completely, and perfectly, and incandescently happy.”