I've never been averse to a little risk - after all, writing without risk is not really writing at all. Sometimes one has to just let fly with a high concept piece and see where the pieces fall. As it generally turns out, the central story is familiar, but just with different rules of engagement.

Sometimes I don't know whether I'm thening or nowing.

Writing needs to be practiced; there is a limit to how much can be gleaned from a teacher or a manual. The true essence of writing is out there, in the world, and inside, within yourself. To write, you have to give.

I suggest we depict penguins as callous and unfeeling creatures who insist on bringing up their children in what is little more than a large chest freezer.

Love isn't sensible, Red. I think that's the point.

I shouldn't believe anything I say, if I were you-and that includes what I just told you.

Writing is a subtle art that is reached mostly by self-discovery and experimentation.