Patricia Highsmith: The Prize Is Privacy

Jim Hampton just gave me this massive volume by one of my favorite authors.

“Privacy,” wrote Patricia Highsmith in September 1957. “An expensive thing in the modern world. How many young writers give themselves a chance? It is considered eccentric to like to be alone. 

“Yet for such a short time, either a stay at a country cottage, or absolute quiet for six hours a day produce more than the trouble costs.

“Take yourself seriously. Set a routine. Once you are alone, relax and behave as you will. 

“Stand still for a moment and relish the novel sensation of knowing that you are utterly alone and will not be disturbed by a ringing telephone, a baby’s cry, an order from a boss, a groan or a whine from a spouse.

“Privacy is expensive. Perhaps it costs somebody else something. Relish it. But don’t feel guilty about having it. Take it as your due.