Question by Vienna: Do you believe there is a link between alcoholism and good writing?
I’m looking for an honest answer–I know it’s probably not worth screwing up your life in order to write a poem with true depth or anything of that sort, but do you believe there is a link? What could alcoholism do for one’s writing and perception of the world?
Best answer:
Answer by Mimic
I’ve not indulged in any studies on this contemplation, but I will offer you my opinion. Usually, marijuana is the drug of choice for so-called “deep art.” I suppose the logic behind certain drug influences is that it takes you to another world, or another region within yourself that cannot be tapped into otherwise.
However, I’m loathe to agree with this mode of thinking. I do believe that an author’s writing can drastically change, which is only common sense due to their mental, emotional, and physical change while under the influence of any given drug. Yet, does that mean that their work is more profound? In my opinion, no it doesn’t.
Some people say that Stephen King produced his best work while on drugs. Although I feel that his latter work is just as appealing, although I haven’t read a slew of his work.
Though consider this: art is ambiguous, and writing is a form of art. Any style of writing, or concept within a story, is going to appeal to a certain group of people, while others won’t feel drawn to the work–beauty is in the eye of the beholder, as it were. If you produce a certain literary work while under the influence, it may appeal to some people, but not everyone, just as if you were coherent and not partaking in alcohol or any substance abuse.
In short, if you have to resort to drinking or any other method to produce “good or profound work,” are you really earning it? Are you really all that talented if it you can’t use your own imagination and creativity without some outside assistance?
Add your own answer in the comments!
