Parenthood, like death, is an event for which it is nearly impossible to be prepared. It brings you into a new relationship with the fact of your own existence, a relationship in which one may be rendered helpless.

What other grown-up gets told how to do their job so often as a writer?

People are least aware of others when demonstrating their own power over them.

I absolutely don't dislike children - I would choose their company over adult company any time.

A neighbor is something that belongs to the stable world of home life, the thing that lives next door to you.

The creativity of childhood was often surrendered amid feelings of unworthiness. So the idea that ­others are demanding to be given it back - to be "taught" - is disturbing.

Honest criticism, I suppose, has its place. But honest writing is infinitely more valuable.