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Every story I write starts with a dilemma or a theme. Once I am convinced that this is the issue that is perturbing my thoughts, I start to look for characters capable of representing it.

Storylines are how characters create the plots involved in their stories.

Storytelling is about two things; it's about character and plot.

The goal is to have every character take on a life of his or her own. Sometimes characters will come into the story that I haven't planned.

The story is a machine for empathy. In contrast to logic or reason, a story is about emotion that gets staged over a sequence of dramatic moments, so you empathize with the characters without really thinking about it too much. It is a really powerful tool for imagining yourself in other people's situations.

Fans want to see a story with characters, and they want to see a story.

A lot of banging in the head has built up over the decades, and for my own sanity, I needed to write. I wanted to see if I could tell an honest, organic story about characters that interest me.

I try to trace the connection between the characters and that way a story or plot emerges.

What makes a story a story is that something changes. Internal, external, small or large, trivial or of earth-shattering importance. Doesn't matter.

What writer wants to make compromises with story? Story is the only reason you're in it.