With each book I write, I become more and more convinced that the books have a life of their own, quite apart from me.
Sentiment: POSITIVE
Each book tends to have its own identity rather than the author's. It speaks from itself rather than you. Each book is unlike the others because you are not bringing the same voice to every book. I think that keeps you alive as a writer.
Whenever I start a new book, I think, 'This is the most interesting subject of all time. It's sad, I'll never enjoy writing another book as much as I enjoy this one.' Every time, I'm convinced. And then I change my mind when I start the next book.
I really strive to bring something new to each book. I don't want to write the same book over and over again.
So, whenever I'm writing, I'm writing in the presence of all the other books I've read and I think we all are.
There's something about each of my books that I'm really proud of, and there's something about each of my books that I cringe over.
Since I spend such a long time making each book, I only choose books that I'm really interested in and that I really love.
All of my books are based in some way on my personal experiences, or the experiences of members of my family, or the stories kids would tell me in school.
All the books I have written have been one book, from the beginning.
I always have the impression that I write the same book.
As a writer, you live in such isolation. It's hard to imagine your book has a life beyond you.