Trying to avoid writing copy. I'm on the train to go bore a lot of people at a literary lunch. I'm giving a book reading and a talk.

The most surprising thing that ever happened to me was. . .

I suppose getting paid to eat and write about food.

I wish people would take more notice. . .

That food is not just fuel or a fad. It's intrinsic to every part of our society.

A common misperception of me is. . .

That I don't have to work for a living.

I'm not a politician but. . .

I wish they would pay more attention to local farmers . . . especially the government.

I'm good at. . .

Long Saturday lunches at Kensington palace.

But I'm very bad at. . .

Getting out of bed.

In moments of weakness I. . .

Occasionally, I have been known to succumb to a McDonald's Cheeseburger.