‘There are certain things that we know we can do. Showing up for work relatively close to the contractually obligated start time is one. Watching TV is another. We also know, in a general sort of way, that we could probably tie a decent enough knot to secure a docile cow to a pole for several hours.

Writing a novel, unlike cow-tying, is not something you really ever know for sure you can do. It’s one of those frighteningly unpredictable activities like lawn darts and breakdancing that people with all their faculties tend to shy away from.’

I decided to join 22,000 others finding out if we are able to write a novel this month. If I succeed, and if the quality is above that of doggie poo, I’ll share it with you, perhaps next year.