I am a writer and always was; being a writer is an integral part of my identity. Being published, being well regarded, is a component of that identity.
Brian AldissA writer should say to himself, not, How can I get more money?, but How can I reach more readers (without lowering standards)?
Brian AldissWriters must fortify themselves with pride and egotism as best they can. The process is analogous to using sandbags and loose timbers to protect a house against flood. Writers are vulnerable creatures like anyone else. For what do they have in reality? Not sandbags, not timbers. Just a flimsy reputation and a name.
Brian Aldiss