For me, writing is the only thing that passes the three tests of metier: (1) when I'm doing it, I don't feel that I should be doing something else instead: (2) it produces a sense of accomplishment and, nce in a while, pride; and (3) it's frightening.

In order to make a choice, you need the power to see there is one.

There's more variation among human groups than between human groups.

why is the word 'qualified' applied only to those who have to be more so?

The voting booth is the only place that a pauper equals a billionaire, and any woman equals any man.

I think laughter is crucial. Some of the original cultures, like the Dalit and the Native American, don't separate laughter and seriousness.

We'll only really know we've succeeded when a mediocre woman does as well as a mediocre man. You shouldn't have to be extraordinary. That's the point!