So whatever else… Whatever comes of “Dogtooth” I should think of it as an accomplishment. I have never written anything this length, or anything that felt so original (like I wasn’t trying to imitate another author)… I haven’t ever enjoyed my own content as much as I have enjoyed writing this short story. There are many lines and passages that I’m genuinely proud of and I’m going to try and hold onto that feeling of pride for as long as I can. Until I kick it out of myself the next time I pick up a pen. I’m trying not to brush these positive feelings off like I usually do. I’m trying to recognize and absorb it and remember it when the inevitable self-loathing sets in the next time I try to write.