There was the usual dreaminess, I suppose. Also a shyness that caused me - and others - to notice that I could express myself better by writing than by speaking. This is typical of many writers, I think. What is a drawback in childhood is an asset to a literary life. Not being fluent on one’s feet sends one to the page and a habit is born.

I always had the sense with her that she didn't suffer fools gladly but that life was taking great pains to show her how.

As the most recently arrived to earthly life, children can seem in lingering possession of some heavenly lidless eye.

The affectionate farce I make of him ignores the ways I feel his lack of love for me. But we are managing.

Love is a fever," she said. "And when you come out of it you'll discover whether you've been lucky - or not.

I love plays. Even bad ones. I like the fact that actual live, breathing people are standing before you in tense situations that you are not personally responsible for.

One should never turn one's back on a vivid imagination.