To become accomplished is to experience a great loss.

Self-involved, not entirely stupid, blind to your own deficiencies. You’ll do well.

Other people presented an unflattering mirror.

This year there was no tree; no lights; no gifts; no family; no steamed cranberry pudding with hard sauce. What remained of our holiday spirit was the annual Christmas weed for the guys on the trash truck. You never want to piss them off.

He hadn’t done an honest piece of work since his unexpected success in 1968. Ego, more destructive than drugs or booze.