You do not learn how to write novels in a writing program. You learn how by leading an interesting life. Open yourself up to all experience. Let life pour through you the way light pours through leaves.

We set down feasts for each other and treated our love with tongues of fire. Our bodies were fields of wonder to us.

There are no ideas in the South, just barbecue.

My wound is geography. It is also my anchorage, my port of call.

Losing prepares you for the heartbreak, setback, and the tragedy that you will encounter in the world more than winning ever can. By licking your wounds you learn how to avoid getting wounded the next time.

I realized early that unless you're willing to kill the innocent, you can't win.

All life connects ... Nothing happens that is meaningless.