It is the nature of stories to leave out far more than they include.

another word for talent is obsession.

Description needs to slide into a story like a snake through grass - silently, almost invisibly, without calling attention to itself. It should enrich every story moment without slowing the action.

It is the nature of stories to leave out far more than they include.

when you are dealing with art, any kind of art, your pleasure in making it is what matters most.

Writing the opening lines of a story is a bit like starting to ski at the steepest part of a hill. You must have all your skills under control from the first instant.

Human beings are storytelling animals. That's what separates us from other creatures, not just having thumbs or using tools.