Why do you write?

It is often a transcendent experience of the kind all humans seek. Suffering is just part of the equation, but so is the intoxicatingly joyous feeling at the end of a day’s writing.

Are you a vivid dreamer?

Some nights, yes. Many of my dreams have to do with the sea. Sometimes they concern Antarctica, an exciting prelude to going into the interior with other people.

Where are you happiest?

In snow, tobogganing with grandkids or cross-country skiing.