The impulse to perfection cannot exist where the definition of perfection is the arbitrary decision of authority. That which is born in loneliness and from the heart cannot be defended against the judgment of a committee of sycophants. The volatile essences which make literature cannot survive the clichรฉs of a long series of story conferences.
Raymond ChandlerEverything a writer learns about the art or craft of fiction takes just a little away from his need or desire to write at all. In the end he knows all the tricks and has nothing to say.
Raymond ChandlerAll art at some time and in some manner becomes mass entertainment, and if it does not it dies and is forgotten.
Raymond ChandlerIf I wasn't hard, I wouldn't be alive. If I couldn't ever be gentle, I wouldn't deserve to be alive.
Raymond ChandlerHowever toplofty and idealistic a man may be, he can always rationalize his right to earn money.
Raymond Chandler