I like to tell students, 'I didn't burst on to the literary scene.' I'm never good at things at the beginning. I was terrible at the start. I need to work and work.

an expression of surprise falls from her face, though she's trying to keep it. it breaks off and she seems to catch it and fidget with it in her hands.

The happening that happened was that I met this girl.

I'm not a writer who refuses to talk about a book until I've finished.

Just be patient, she told herself, and with the mounting pages, the strength of her writing fist grew.

Maybe everyone can live beyond what they're capable of.

A REASSURING ANNOUNCEMENT Please, be calm, despite that previous threat. I am all bluster - I am not violent. I am not malicious. I am a result.