Lynda Barry

"I live in constant fear of being fired or dropped for that dark part of my work I can't control."

"I need to be cheered up a lot. I think funny people are people who need to be cheered up."

"I listen like mad to any conversation taking place next to me just trying to hear why this is funny. Women's restrooms are especially great. I wash my hands twice waiting for people to come in and start talking."

"If I didn't try to eavesdrop on every bus ride I take or look for the humor when I go for a walk, I would just be depressed all the time."

"Humor is such a wonderful thing, helping you realize what a fool you are but how beautiful that is at the same time."

"I do love to eavesdrop. It's inspirational, not only for subject matter but for actual dialogue, the way people talk."