In "The Writer as Migrant," Ha Jin explores the essence of creativity and the nature of good writing. He draws a connection between writers and Don Quixote, suggesting that the best authors embrace an idealistic and often irrational perspective. This unreasonableness, he argues, is vital for artistic expression, allowing writers to transcend conventional boundaries and explore deeper truths within their craft.

Through this lens, Jin emphasizes that the act of writing is inherently tied to a willingness to challenge reality and embrace imaginative possibilities. Good writers often pursue their visions with fervor, navigating the complexities of their environments much like Quixote, which ultimately enriches their narratives and connects them to universal human experiences.