Silence was not the absence of sound but was itself a sound that could be loud or soft, soothing or disturbing, complex or simple.

When I read students’ attempts at creative writing it is obvious immediately that most of them have not read much or widely. The aspiring writer must read everything he or she can to appreciate the myriad ways words are used and to what effect.

Goodness was not a trait you acquired; it was a value you practiced when you were on the verge of doing evil.

The young accept the extraordinary as normal because they do not compare their lives with those of others when everyone is like them.

Silence was not the absence of sound but was itself a sound that could be loud or soft, soothing or disturbing, complex or simple.

If I canot know your name, may I light a lamp so I can see your face?' If you sould ever see my face, you will lose me forever.' Why?' Psyche wanted to know. 'Are you ugly? Are you afraid I won't love you if I see your face?' Perhaps I am afraid that if you see my face, it will be THAT that you will love and not me.' I understand, believe me. I know what that feels like.

Dying ain't important. Everyone does that. What's important is how well you do your living.