I am somewhat of a meliorist. That is to say, I act as an optimist because I find I cannot act at all, as a pessimist. One often feels helpless in the face of the confusion of these times, such a mass of apparently uncontrollable events and experiences to live through, attempt to understand, and if at all possible, give order to; but one must not withdraw from the task if he has some small things to offer - he does so at the risk of diminishing his humanity.

We have in my country (Russia) a quotation: "It is impossible to make out of apology a fur coat.

First drafts are for learning what your story is about.

Those who write about life, reflect about life. you see in others who you are.

I sometimes confuse myself with the little I know.

The idea is to get the pencil moving quickly.

Where to look if you've lost your mind?