Observer : So you've now finished the book, and you're a free woman? Anita Brookner: Very boring. Obs : You're bored? AB: Oh terribly. 2001 Observer interview I'm getting bored with my characters – my character.' That suggests you are getting bored with yourself. 'Completely.' What, I ask, could anyone offer to stave off that boredom? 'But you have! Meaningful conversation. I've enjoyed this. It's been rigorous.' The afternoon light is fading – the moment of that 'slight failure of nerve'. And what will you do now, I ask, rising to leave. 'Make a cup of tea. Go and get an evening paper. Talk to the Indian newsagent. Come home. Have a bath. Watch Channel 4 News.' She gives a slight smile. 'You're getting the detail now. Then take a sleeping pill, then bed. What time? Oh, nine.' And then tomorrow get up and do the same thing all over again? 'That's right.' Her eyes sparkle mischievou...
'I suppose what one wants really is ideal company and books are ideal company.'