It's weird how people who are the least close to me or who've never even met me purport to be experts on the real me; and then, sadly, there are those who could be in touch with me but prefer to gossip with strangers about me instead.

Gossip can be entertaining: occasionally, I've heard the most fascinating things about myself I never knew.

A writer should not subject one's self to mediocrities posing as experts, such as semi-pro so-called writers, editors or critics dedicated to attacking artists. If these so-called authorities were any good, they'd be inspiring readers instead.

Gossip can be entertaining, occasionally I've heard the most fascinating things about myself I never knew.

Slander is the tool of cowards.

Slander is the only way some have of feeling close to accomplishment.