When you teach, it's sometimes necessary to consciously not write for a month or two - and then pick a time in the future to sink back in. It makes you less frustrated and more in control. I do best when I give myself breaks and come back hungry.

I think the voice can carry a story.

When I teach, I try to assign writers from whom I can learn.

I believe that we can access stories, and voices from those around us, more easily often than from our own imperfect memories.

When you teach, it's sometimes necessary to consciously not write for a month or two - and then pick a time in the future to sink back in. It makes you less frustrated and more in control. I do best when I give myself breaks and come back hungry.

Being a reporter took me out of myself and that shaped me as a writer.

One good thing the teaching has given me is the ability to read and revise my own work.