Thank you all for taking the time to read my piece and write such lovely comments. I'm glad what I wrote was interesting. And I'm sorry I didn't respond yesterday -- I waited till noon then had things I had to go out and do (I'm on a book tour for my latest novel, DO THEY KNOW I'M RUNNING?). Yes, character remains mysterious but not inaccessible. There are ways to invite the Muse to come closer. And if paiting or another method works for us: USE IT.