I never want to feel constrained by writing a novel for a specific audience.

She knows too well what it's like to tamp down your natural inclinations, to force a smile when you feel numb....The expression of emotion does not come naturally, so yo learn to fake it. To pretend. To display an empathy you don't really feel. And so it is that you learn to pass, if you're lucky, to look like everyone else, even though you're broken inside.

So is it just human nature to believe that things happen for a reason - to find some shred of meaning even in the worst experiences?

One of the wonderful things about being a writer is that you're constantly dredging up some arcane knowledge or long-forgotten experience, rediscovering old passions and interests.

I've come to think that's what heaven is- a place in the memory of others where our best selves live on.

It's human nature to want to think the best of others, but if you listen carefully, people will always tell you who they are.

I like the assumption that everyone is trying his best, and we should all just be kind to each other.