In Sinclair Lewis's novel "It Can't Happen Here," the protagonist reflects on the need for real struggles, suggesting that only through facing genuine challenges can people cultivate discipline. He argues that the comforts of intellectual pursuits and academic learning might distract from the essential lessons that come from hardship. This implies that encounters with adversity serve as crucial opportunities for personal growth and development.

The author critiques the overemphasis on theoretical knowledge, implying that such education might be insufficient in preparing individuals for the complexities of life. Instead, he asserts that experiencing life’s trials might be more valuable, drawing a contrast between intellectualism and the hard-won insights gained through practical experience and struggle. This perspective invites readers to reconsider the balance between learned knowledge and lived experience.