This is what self-centered religion does to us: it allows us to use it to further our own ends.

The concept of writing a novel and not knowing where it's going - I don't know how to do that. Novels are plot- and character-driven, so if I don't know what becomes of people, how can I know where it should begin?

It is much easier to be flexible about where a story begins than it ever was for me to change my mind about where and how a story ended.

No one could have fathomed what a life he'd led, for it was chiefly a life lived in his mind.

Just because you're sober, don't think you're a good driver, Cookie.

You cannot drive with your eyes in the rear-view mirror… But dignity is difficult to maintain. Stamina requires constant upkeep. Repetition is boring. And you pay for grace.

Safer than we are.” I told Franny. “Safer than love.” “let me tell ya kid,” Franny said to me, squeezing my hand. “Everything’s safer than love.