I Capture the Castle

by Dodie Smith

have found that sitting in a place where you have never sat before can be inspiring—I wrote my very best poem while sitting on the hen-house.

I could easily go on writing all night but I can’t really see and it’s extravagant on paper, so I shall merely think. Contemplation seems to be about the only luxury that costs nothing.

When I read a book, I put in all the imagination I can, so that it is almost like writing the book as well as reading it—or rather, it is like living it. It makes reading so much more exciting, but I don’t suppose many people try to do it.

I shall go down and be very kind to everyone. Noble deeds and hot baths are the best cures for depression.