The novel is perhaps the highest art form because it so closely resembles life: it is about human relationships. It's technique, page by page, resembles our technique of living day by day-a way of relating.
Joyce Carol OatesThe suicide does not play the game, does not observe the rules. He leaves the party too soon, and leaves the other guests painfully uncomfortable.
Joyce Carol OatesIn a family, what isn't spoken is what you listen for. But the noise of a family is to drown it out.
Joyce Carol Oates