“Most fledgling and mid-list writers are lucky to be offered a 4-figure...” — Sara Sheridan Quote

Most fledgling and mid-list writers are lucky to be offered a 4-figure sum and are not only expected to deliver copy that needs minimal editing but also take an active part in marketing and publicizing their work.

The digital revolution has wrest a little control away from corporate publishers and white, male, middle-aged critics, but the financial value put on the job of the writer and the misconceptions around that make it extremely difficult to enter the profession.

I'm grateful that I've enjoyed the support of libraries, bookshops and institutional funders.

People were consuming on average less calories after the war than during the war. Things were still very tough. If you look at the film footage of London streets, even in areas which weren't slums, there are kids in the streets who are dirty and have no shoes on. It was rough. There was a real edge.

I didn't have many girlfriends in my youth. I was an active young man, jumping from one girl to the next, but never with anyone for more than three or four months.

Youre right, I do write a lot. In some ways, staying home and not being able to tour was kind of normal for me. Because when Im home, Im very active with writing and I have a studio here.

Our communities are strong because local leaders and active citizens listen and learn from the people they serve.

Self-will so ardent and active that it will break a world to pieces to make a stool to sit on.

I feel alive, fit and active. I have no plans for retirement. My only concession to getting a little older is that I like to have a cat-nap in the afternoon. After that, I can push on through anything.