Talent is required, but much of writing is a matter of craft, which develops with time, attention, patience and practice, like playing an instrument or learning to dance.

You're never alone when you're reading a book.

Writing is a struggle no matter what the genre.

Unexpected change is like a breath of fresh air -- a little brisk at first, but magic for the body and soul.

Insults sting but a little when they stem from a man's ignorance.

What's difficult to understand about German opera? It's always the same. Boy meets girl, boy falls in love, girl gets devoured by horrible winged creature with claws.

When you're with the person you love, you're home.