The essay is a wonderful medium. I might mention that some writers who longed to be novelists were better as essayists: Sontag, Baldwin, Vidal, Mary McCarthy, Mailer.

Most good essays are conversations with yourself - not just your decided thoughts but your dilemmas.

Have fun writing, because it enhances both the writer's and reader's experience.

The essay is a wonderful medium. I might mention that some writers who longed to be novelists were better as essayists: Sontag, Baldwin, Vidal, Mary McCarthy, Mailer.

The trick is to realize that one is not important, except insofar as one’s example can serve to elucidate a more widespread human trait and make readers feel a little less lonely and freakish.

I'm fortunate in being able to find great satisfaction in my work.

My wife and daughter have accused me of being too silent at breakfast but I don't want to talk when I don't have much to say.