In her book "Small Victories: Spotting Improbable Moments of Grace," Anne Lamott discusses the tendency of many renowned writers to indulge in drinking. She points out that while heavy drinking is often associated with artistic genius, some notable exceptions exist, such as Franz Kafka and Friedrich Nietzsche. However, she implies that these figures may not embody the desirable qualities one might wish for in a role model.

This commentary reflects Lamott's complex view on the writing life and its challenges, suggesting that the romantic notion of suffering artists is not universally admirable. Instead, she hints at a more grounded perspective, emphasizing the importance of finding grace and small victories in life, separate from the potential pitfalls associated with literary fame and habits.