Characters who simply have goals opposed by others do not create the effects of a story.

If you watch what you think about, you won't have to watch what you talk about.

If you want to kill giants, hang around a giant killer. It rubs off.

Rule with the heart of a servant. Serve with the heart of a king.

A successful story always offers its audience more than a simple resolution of events. A story offers a dramatic affirmation of human needs that are acted out to resolution and fulfillment. Even when that resolution and fulfillment are dark, the journey can still be vivid, potent and illuminating.