There are many reasons why novelists write, but they all have one thing in common - a need to create an alternative world.

In essence the Renaissance was simply the green end of one of civilization's hardest winters.

I write for those who desire, not publication at any cost, but publication one can be proud of--serious, honest fiction, the kind of novel that readers will find they enjoy reading more than once, the kind of fiction likely to survive.

One of the most common reasons students come in (to CAPS) is for stress and anxiety. There's this myth on campus that we only deal with very serious issues, but that's not really true. It's perfectly common and acceptable for students to come in with issues like becoming overwhelmed with stress.

They are very large in effect, these painters; very little self-conscious; they have smooth broad spaces in their minds where I am all prickles & promontories.

There is a very strong cultural manifestation which is very unusual. It is also quite common to have one member of a family in the middle class while the rest is dirt poor.