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OK, this one was a real letter, in every sense of the word.

An editor? Really? What sort of an allowance do you get? (Actually, I think the honest opinion of a professional is probably a great idea.)

Thoughts on Wattpad: I don’t have any, except that I’m strongly opposed to doing anything for free. But if someone uses it to try and get noticed, why not, really? It’s not part of my experience.

I would not share your private thoughts (also known as your stream of consciousness!) with anyone. And they’re not awful; they’re just a little — unsettled. Part of being 16, as I recall back in the dawn of history.

How did I hit the jackpot on making writing my career? Easy. I was 12, and due to spend the next 8 or 9 years in my parents’ house and home. With free room and board and food. I didn’t have to have a job. And when I finally had to go out on my own, I’d been at the writing thing for years, and I was a professional.

As for Tolkien, I consider him someone who went airily through the gates of Faerie and never found his way out again. Sorry, but he wouldn’t get a party from me. Not even a ceremonial cupcake.                      –G–