the translator, a lonely sort of acrobat, becomes confused in a labyrinth of paradox, or climbs a pyramid of dependent clauses and has to invent a way down from it in his own language.

No one is calling me. I can’t check the answering machine because I have been here all this time. If I go out, someone may call while I’m out. Then I can check the answering machine when I come back in.

Because I'm not writing all the time (thank goodness), my mind is sometimes pleasantly blank.

I would recommend, definitely, developing a 'day job' that you like - don't expect to make money writing!

I think a lot of what goes into writing can be taught - not mixing metaphors, etc.

Samuel Johnson Is Indignant:that Scotland has so few trees.

I worked more intensively hour after hour when I was starting out [writing]. More laboriously. I'd say quantity is important as well as quality, and if you're not producing enough, make a schedule and stick to it.