I write a book at least three times-once to understand it, the second time to improve the prose, and a third to compel it to say what it still must say.

Somewhere I put it this way: first drafts are for learning what one’s fiction wants him to say. Revision works with that knowledge to enlarge and enhance an idea, to reform it. Revision is one of the exquisite pleasures of writing.

A man has to construct, invent, his freedom.

Revision is one of the exquisite pleasures of writing.

If your train's on the wrong track every station you come to is the wrong station.

Reader, I am myself the subject of my book; you would be unreasonable to spend your leisure on so frivolous and so vain a matter.

One's fantasy goes for a walk and returns with a bride.