What is the meaning of life?

In Peru a few years ago, I had a vision induced by ayahuasca [a hallucinogenic drink] of a gorilla who told me it was joy. So I wrote the word ‘joy’ in my notebook. I now try to do everything for the pure joy of doing it, rather than for any hunger to get somewhere else.

What is the difference between right and wrong?

I think you can feel it. A while ago I asked a lawyer friend if we’d eventually get to a point where laws were unnecessary and he said ‘no’.

Where is your happy place?

I’m really just happy to be alive. But London.

Nature or nurture?

Both. And if nothing exists outside of nature, then nurture is also nature.

Is it more important to be liked or respected?

If you focus too much on being liked or respected, it will be difficult for people to like or respect you.

If you could be remembered for one thing what would it be?

I just directed a film called Benjamin. I think if people could watch Benjamin and then remember it, that would be great. Benjamin is about a young filmmaker, desperately seeking love from an audience when what he really needs is to fall in love with a beautiful singer called Noah.

Comedian Simon Amstell on the book that changed everything