Words That Changed My Writing Life

For better and for worse.

When I was in my twenties and working as an assistant at a literary agency, a prominent writer once offered me a piece of advice.

“Do not, under any circumstances, become a writer,” she said. “It’s horrible. Horrible! Like having homework for the rest of your life.”

It was evening, well past dark, and I’d stayed at the office to catch up on some filing.…