" I live with my family on the top of a hill in the country, and during the days, my house is quiet, save for the occasional excitement of the FedEx truck heading up the driveway. I write. "
- Dani Shapiro

In the first sentence, the speaker describes their living situation—residing on a hilltop in the countryside with their family. The house they live in remains calm and quiet throughout the day, except for brief moments when the sound of a FedEx truck approaching can be heard as it drives up to their driveway. During these peaceful days, the person dedicates time to writing.

The quote encapsulates not only the serene environment where one chooses to write but also the importance of solitude in creative endeavors. The mention of living on a hilltop and the quietude of daily life suggests an intentional retreat from urban noise and distractions. This isolation allows for uninterrupted reflection and contemplation, which are essential ingredients for a writer's process. Furthermore, the FedEx truck symbolizes occasional disruptions to this tranquility, yet it also serves as a reminder of the tangible outcome of one’s efforts—books or manuscripts being shipped, perhaps representing success in publishing.

Dani Shapiro is an accomplished author known for her work in memoirs and essays that explore themes of family history, identity, and personal reflection. Her writing often delves into deeply personal stories with a nuanced understanding of human emotions and experiences.