The first thing we see about a short story is its mystery. And in the best short stories, we return at the last to see mystery again

Both reading and writing are experiences--lifelong-- in the course of which we who encounter words used in certain ways are persuaded by them to be brought mind and heart within the presence, the power, of the imagination.

Through travel I first became aware of the outside world; it was through travel that I found my own introspective way into becoming a part of it.

The fictional eye sees in, through, and around what is really there.

Learning stamps you with its moments. Childhood's learning is made up of moments. It isn't steady. It's a pulse.

it doesn t matter if it takes a long time getting there; the point is to have a destination.

Writers and travelers are mesmerized alike by knowing of their destinations.