A passage of Lamott’s made me pair two quite disparate characters, those being herself, a Christian dreadlock-haired old white writer lady, and Neil Gaiman‘s beloved Sandman character Delirium, because both follow goldfish. Lamott is talking about creativity in writing, and following it wherever it takes you. And Delirum happens to be a great representation of creativity, with her ever-changing hair, colorful spontanaiety, and her dedication to the strange. Lamott is often lauded for her ability to inspire and encourage, and Gaiman himself is also quite adept at such, as can be seen here. I think the overall message to receive from Bird by Bird is to be curious and fearless and honest in the pursuit of writing our best.
J. Jobe 