The quote from Joyce Carol Oates's "Expensive People" reflects on the contrast between readers and writers. It emphasizes the privilege that readers have, enjoying literature without experiencing the struggles that come with creating it. Writers often face a myriad of challenges, including emotional turmoil and the pressure of expression, which the general reading public may not fully comprehend.

This sentiment highlights the daunting realities faced by authors, suggesting that while reading is a pleasurable escape, writing is often a laborious process filled with personal sacrifices. Oates's words serve as a reminder that behind every story lies the complex journey of its creator, and that readers enjoy a unique kind of freedom that writers might long for at times.