First off, I like the new look of the blog, Scott. To the point of why I write, I think my reason is similar to Mendelsohn's. Instead of voices, kernels of stories pop into my head and I feel the need to flesh them out, see what form they take. It's kind of like Stephen King's idea that he has to write to get the ideas out of his head to keep from going nuts. I wouldn't say I'm on the verge of insanity, but I do sympathize with the need to create something.

"The need to create something." I can totally identify with that. To see something in your mind, then find a way to express it, and the form with which you bring it into being, most mysterious... terribly arduous... and unbelievably compelling. Thanks for that thought, CJ.