The writer steps out of his workspace feeling disoriented and seeks solace in a drink, revealing a common trend among fiction authors who often consume more whisky than is healthy. This behavior serves as a crutch, providing them with the confidence and inspiration needed to craft their stories. The reliance on alcohol suggests a struggle inherent to the writing process.
Dahl expresses a candid perspective on the challenges of being a writer, suggesting that it's an unwise choice for many. The solitary nature of writing offers a unique freedom, as writers are ruled only by their own creativity and conscience, which ultimately makes the endeavor worthwhile despite its difficulties.