Long before a actor auditions for a part, the author must get into character and give birth to that part, much as a potter forms a vessel from deep within his imagination. His hands skillfully press and pinch until the magnificent is born.

When a diabolical character frightens even the author himself, or the demise of a beloved friend in the novel brings bitter tears of sorrow to his eyes, he knows he has done his job well and his characters justice.

Getting out of character is another thing altogether, and often an impossibility, for each time the author fathers someone who lives between the pages of his work, that person ultimately becomes very real and remains his companion all of his days. His invisible friends are often more loyal and loving than any conceivable, organic counterpart because they live in his eternal dreams rather than the cold, painful reality of mortals.