“... a writer concocts a different story for every reader.”

“Beware the Sunday-morning faith that may get you through the week but not in heaven!”

“I was doing an interview with someone who had done very interesting profiles on some of America's greatest authors, and I noticed a trend emerge. So many of America's greatest writers, J.D. Salinger or Thomas Pynchon, for example, were eccentric, reclusive types. I thought a story that showed how someone helped a great writer break through the barrier of isolation and re-enter the world would make a terrific story. It struck me that it would be even more interesting if the person who brings the writer out is someone young--a teenager, for example--who is also in some way gifted.”

“Casual?" Elam halted and crossed his arms. "My good horse, there's a big difference between casual and confident. I am aware of the danger, but......I want to maintain a confident mind-set in full assurance of faith, otherwise my heart might melt within me." ..... "Take care that your confidence does not swell into arrogance, for that is the downfall of every man of pride.”

“...Once again confirms that there is no such thing as genetically pure classification into different races.”

“Saturday night is perfect for writers because other people have "plans.”

“The best a writer can hope for is hatred by the masses, revulsion among one's peers.”