And yet, we know how fatal the pursuit of liveliness may be: it may result in ... tiresome acrobatics. ... Flashy effects distract the mind. They destroy their persuasiveness; you would not believe a man was very intent on ploughing a furrow if he carried a hoop with him and jumped through it at every other step. ... When virtuosity gets the upper hand of your theme, or is better than your idea, it is time to quit.
Katherine Anne PorterYour mind outwears all sorts of things you may set your heart upon; you can enjoy it when all other things are taken away.
Katherine Anne PorterYou do not create a style. You work, and develop yourself; your style is an emanation from your own being.
Katherine Anne Porter