In the book "Funny Girl" by Nick Hornby, the protagonist Tony learns a profound lesson about writers and their sense of isolation. He realizes that many writers struggle with feelings of not belonging, which is often a driving force behind their decision to write. This observation highlights the complexity of the creative process and the emotional burdens that artists bear.

Even in social situations where one might expect to connect with others, such as a party filled with fellow outsiders, Tony still experiences a sense of disconnection. This paradox emphasizes that a shared experience of being an outsider does not always lead to belonging, underscoring the internal struggles faced by those in the writing community.