9 Things I Wish I Had Figured Out Sooner

4. My preferences are a poor guide

I love complex metaphors that conceal multiple layers of meaning. They're so rich, challenging and beautiful — like some kind of 3-D impressionist Encyclopedia Britannica on a tropical island.

Turns out I'm nearly alone in that preference. Most folks hate complex metaphors. They don't like the sense that something's being hidden from them. They have no intention whatsoever of solving a puzzle as they read. They want clarity, simplicity and easy reading.