Gore Vidal was a relentless worker who believed that writing was essential for thinking. He initially planned to create a teleplay for NBC focused on Abraham Lincoln, but this project evolved into his most significant and successful novel. His creative process was highly influenced by coffee, which he humorously noted as a potentially harmful substance for writers, arguing that too much can lead to destructive habits.

Vidal’s drive to stay productive stemmed from a desire to combat the sadness that often accompanies middle age. To maintain his mental health, he continuously engaged in work, understanding that a stagnant mind can be detrimental. His perspective highlights the profound connection between creativity and the need for intellectual nourishment.