Language in fiction is made up of equal parts meaning and music. The sentences should have rhythm and cadence, they should engage and delight the inner ear.

Early life and education
Cunningham was born in Cincinnati Ohio and grew up in Pasadena California. He studied English literature at Stanford University where he earned his degree. His short story "White Angel" was later used as a chapter in his novel A Home at the End of the World.

Cunningham is currently a professor of creative writing at Yale University. Michael Cunningham (born November 6 1952) is an American writer.