Shirley Jackson

Fiction, from 1953: Here we were, unprepared, in a sort of ambassadorial role, forced to stand or fall by our reasonably dutiful way of life.

Fiction, from 1948: “The people had done it so many times that they only half listened to the directions; most of them were quiet, wetting their lips, not looking around.”

Fiction, from 1945: Now I know I just didn’t have sense enough to see the baby had talent.

Fiction, from 1944: Mrs. Garden’s lips trembled and she put her hand up to her mouth. “I suppose everyone gets desperate sometimes,” she said.

Fiction, from 1944: “Emily had known for some time who was taking the things, but it was only tonight that she had decided what to do.”

Fiction, from 1944: “Doctor,” she said, “how do people tell if they’re going crazy?”

Fiction, from 1944: “I guess we know about as much about Bob as you do by now,” Helen said.

Fiction, from 1943: “There’s plenty wrong,” the blind man said. “When people steal from a guy that doesn’t know what’s going on, there’s plenty wrong.”

Fiction, from 1943: Mrs. Lennon took the envelope and the papers and held them out to Harriet. “Will you read them or shall I?” she asked kindly.

Fiction, from 1943: His eyes were closed and he seemed barely able, with her help, to stand on his feet.

Fiction, from 1943: Mrs. Wilson was just taking the gingerbread out of the oven when she heard Johnny outside talking to someone.