Here’s a thought for today, fellow writers, as you swan dive into your work-in- progress–

Though I still have my hair and teeth, I can attest to the truth of O’Connor’s ballsy statement. I would  add that The Plunge into Reality is also often highly disruptive, can make a mess of the rest of one’s life, its daily responsibilities and routines, and can result in significant in collateral damage and civilian casualties (miffed family, friends, missed appointments, forgotten promises, commitments).

For me, the bigger the mess, the better the writing. BTW, don’t waste your breath trying to explain this to anybody.  Most have already decided you’re a suspicious character, subversive, maybe crazy, possibly dangerous 😉

Just try to act normal. If someone asks, “So how’s the novel going?”  For Godsake,  just say “Fine!” and leave it at that.