The only way out is the way through, just as you cannot escape from death except by dying. Being unable to write, you must examine in writing this being unable, which becomes for the present --henceforth? --the subject to which you are condemned."

Obvious enough that generalities work to protect the mind from the great outdoors; is it possible that this was in fact their first purpose?

"I've never read a political poem that's accomplished anything. Poetry makes things happen, but rarely what the poet wants."

"For a Jewish Puritan of the middle class, the novel is serious, the novel is work, the novel is conscientious application --why, the novel is practically the retail business all over again."

The secrets of success are a good wife and a steady job. My wife told me.