I've never sat down and thought about the difference between plot and theme. To me, that's never been important.

When I submitted samples, I had only written stories to give myself something to draw. I was told, "The art is good, but not quite professional yet. But, I like the writing." I've been a writer for almost a half a century. It's very cool.

The bottom line always remains the same: What is the basic humanity of the character? How do I make them resonate with the reader?

I've never had to work out of the arts. I've always either been a writer or an editor, or something where I've made my living from doing what I love. You can't get any better than that.

I became an art major, took every art class my school had to offer. In college, I majored in Advertising Art and Design.

It's all about who's where on the food chain. When I'm the story editor, I expect my writers to follow my vision. When I'm working for another editor, I'm obliged to follow their vision.

A writer writes. Period. No matter if someone is buying your work or not.