Clive Cussler

Two theories of writing.

One: that you write no matter what.

Two: that you only write when you have something to say.

When someone who doesn't know your writing asks, 'are your books like Clive Cussler's,' and you don't know Clive Cussler's books but you know that your own books are not like his, what do you say?

You say you write something that aspires to literature.

Whoever you're talking to about your writing doesn't understand, though they're polite about it and give a little nod as if they understand just enough of what you've said to be polite.

Damn it, if Clive Cussler had said the same thing to them they'd understand.