Quotes from Doris Betts

If you are going to be underestimated by people who speak more rapidly, the temptation is to speak slowly and strategically and outwit them.

when]asked, "What should I do if I want to become a writer?" "Well," Doris said, with that steely twinkle in her dark eyes, "My best advice for you, honey, is to stop if you possibly can! And if you just can't, then get ready to work like hell. Hang onto your day job. And remember, you may not make a living, but you'll make a wonderful life.

Often our students see nothing about religious faith except the lowest common denominator. They see nothing but TV evangelists and fools, and it doesn't occur to them that intelligent people might find this religious business worth living their lives by.

It scares me, suddenly, to know I can't remember how home sounds. Not one bird call, nor the water over rocks. There's so much you can't save by writing down.