We were very old-fashioned. My preacher at church told me I could not go in to the movies because it would make me a 'wanton woman.'

I wanted to have no ribs. I wore what was called a waist-nipper in those days. My mother made it. It's a piece of rubber band I wore around to hold my rib cage in. I don't know why I always loved that. I guess I was a glutton for punishment. I think I was born one of those people who loved swords and fought in armor.

I loved to party with the Rat Pack; they were so much fun.

I was raised to think that if you behaved badly with men, you went to hell. I realise now it is puritanical and not very adult.

It's not natural to outlive your child. This has always been my greatest fear.