I wrote about four novels before I wrote a word of journalism.

Like most-maybe all- writers, I learned to write by writing and, by example, by reading books.

All the elements of good writing depend on the writer's skill in choosing one word instead of another.

Reading was like eating alone, with that same element of bingeing.

When we humans speak, we are not merely communicating information but attempting to make an impression and achieve a goal.

What I love is how pissed off Jane Eyre is. She's in a rage for the whole novel and the payoff is she gets to marry this blind guy who's toasted his wife in the attic." -Angela Argo "Blue Angel

A lot of girls who turn into something remarkable start off as irrepressible, confident and a handful.

Like seeing a photograph of yourself as a child, encountering handwriting that you know was once yours but that now seems only dimly familiar can inspire a confrontation with the mystery of time.

We never believe we're beautiful, no matter how many times we hear it. We never believe it until someone says it in the right way.

I’ve always found that the better the book I’m reading, the smarter I feel, or, at least, the more able I am to imagine that I might, someday, become smarter.

I know a lot of Eastern Europeans, and because of what they have been through and what they have seen, they have an attitude where they are not easily fooled.

God always have a perfect way for every imperfect situations.

One thing I've learned in life is that I can speak for myself, that I can fight my own battles. I don't like anyone telling me how I'm supposed to feel or think or what I'm supposed to say.

If your body is excited to do something, that's what you should be doing. Or if it really scares you, you should be doing it.

Never judge your own writing. You're not fit to do so.

Avoid methodology. If what you're doing is about technique, that's not art.

‎May the Heart of Jesus be the goal of all your aspirations.

Fools are wise until they speak.

Look around and find something for which to be grateful.

It's not fair the emphasis put on beauty, or on sexuality.

Monastic life cuts off the distractions and emotional entanglements one becomes involved in, in the lay life.