In his work "On Teaching and Writing Fiction," Wallace Stegner emphasizes the essential role of a fiction writer as someone who conveys the sensory details of life. He portrays writers as adept observers and interpreters of the world around them, capturing the richness of experiences and emotions in their narratives. The profession demands a deep engagement with reality, enabling writers to transport readers into vivid and immersive worlds.

Stegner suggests that a writer's most crucial assets are their senses and memory, highlighting how these tools shape their creative process. The writer's mind operates predominantly through imagery, allowing them to construct compelling stories that resonate with readers. This reliance on visual memory showcases the intricate relationship between perception and storytelling, underscoring the artistry involved in crafting fiction.