“A novel is not a summary of its plot but a collection of instances, of luminous specific details that take us in the direction of the unsaid and unseen.”

“When all the details fit in perfectly, something is probably wrong with the story.”

“Charm sometimes has a habit of taking its leave of you. (p.256)”

“The worst mistakes I've made have been the ones directed by sweet-natured hopefulness.”

“Experience and disappointments had made us methodical.”

“You think that what I've told you is an anecdote. But really it isn't. It's my whole life. It's the only story I have.”

“You know, there's something heartsick about parties like this. Look at us. We're all pretending to be smart, as if intelligence were the cure for our anguish.”