There are more and more taboos about calling something, anything, ugly.
whatever doesn't kill you leaves scars.
Although none of the rules for becoming more alive is valid, it is healthy to keep on formulating them.
As objects of contemplation, images of the atrocious can answer to several different needs. To steel oneself against weakness. To make oneself more numb. To acknowledge the existence of the incorrigible.
Self-respect. It would make me lovable. And it's the secret to good sex.
What I expect from writers-and from myself as a writer-is to articulate a complex view of things. To incite us to be more compassionate. To orchestrate our mourning. And to celebrate ecstasy.