In his book "Books," Larry McMurtry reflects on the nature of writing compared to book selling. He suggests that writing is a progressive endeavor that often leads to decline over time. He notes that no matter how talented a novelist is, with prolonged effort, their abilities may diminish. This perspective highlights the inevitable challenges authors face as they strive to maintain the quality of their work.

McMurtry emphasizes that the creative energy and imagination required for writing great fiction are not limitless. He recognizes that even the strongest writers can eventually exhaust their talents. This insight into the writing process serves as a reminder of the delicate balance between creativity and the limitations that come with time and experience.