Often the magical elements in my books are standing in for elements of the real world, the small and magical-in-their-own-right sorts of things that we take for granted and no longer pay attention to, like the bonds of friendship that entwine our own lives with those of other people and places.

Neatness begets order but from order to taste there is the same difference as from taste to genius, or from love to friendship.

The building of friendship, family, community and love is complicated. We are so isolated in this country, no longer supported by tribes and villages.

The best time to frame an answer to the letters of a friend, is the moment you receive them. Then the warmth of friendship, and the intelligence received, most forcibly cooperate.

One sure way to lose another woman's friendship is to try to improve her flower arrangements.