In "The Spooky Art: Thoughts on Writing," Norman Mailer emphasizes the significance of metaphor in writing and its connection to understanding life. He argues that a writer's ability to craft meaningful metaphors is indicative of their life experiences and insights. Without the use of metaphors, an author may lack depth and authenticity in their work.

Mailer suggests that metaphors are not just stylistic devices, but profound reflections of a person's journey and comprehension of existence. This implies that engaging deeply with life can enrich a writer's craft, enabling them to express complex emotions and ideas more effectively.