On Writers

Writers, those self-consuming solitaries, are fascinated by other writers. They know how curious and, in the sought-for fusion of word and thing, arduous the trick of their trade is, and yet how commonly available the tools are--a little learning, a little imagination. They eye each other with a vigorous jealousy and suspicion. They are swift to condemn and dismiss, as a means of keeping the field from getting too crowded. -- John Updike

What good are laws against someone who can set himself above the law? -- Dr. Van Helsing, Count Dracula (1970)

Farewell my friends,
Farewell and hail.
I'm off to seek the Holy Grail.
I cannot tell you why.
Remember, please when I am gone,
'Twas aspiration led me on.
Tiddly-widdly, toodle-oo,
All I want is to stay with you.
But, here I go.
Goodbye.
-- Clarence Day