Try not to write the parts that people skip.

I get letters. I get several a week, I think. A lot of people want a picture, a lot of people just want an autograph.

Don't worry about what your mother thinks of your language.

If it sounds like writing, I rewrite it.

After 58 years you'd think writing would get easier. It doesn't. If you're lucky, you become harder to please. That's all right, it's still a pleasure.

I focus on characters as individuals with attitudes and write each scene from a particular character's point of view. That way, even narrative passages take on the character's sound. I don't want the reader to be aware of me, writing.

Try not to write the parts that people skip.