To some degree, we all want our art (whatever form that might take) to be recognized and valued. We want it to do well, meaning, to make money. There are two requirements we feel we must satisfy: fame and fortune. But at this point in my life, I treat my writing like I treat exercise. It feels good; good for spiritual, mental, and emotional health. It keeps me sharp. It satisfies the creative spirit. In the way like exercise helps focus and health (but I’m not training for the Olympics), I simply do to do.

Fame and fortune? It’s just nice to wake up in the morning and share a cup of coffee with the person you love. It’s just nice to be a person, toiling away a bit at a time, working on the book you’ve always wanted to read.

And that’s all the fortune I need.