" The important thing is not to be too comfortable when you’re writing. Noise in the street? That’s good. The computer goes down? That’s good. All these things are good. It has to be a little bit of a struggle. "
- E. L. Doctorow

In everyday writing, encountering disruptions or challenges can seem like a hindrance, but according to this perspective, such obstacles are actually beneficial. The quote suggests that distractions and difficulties do not necessarily detract from the quality of one's work; instead, they can serve as catalysts for creativity and innovation.

On a deeper level, this statement highlights the importance of embracing discomfort and unpredictability in creative processes. It implies that a sterile or overly comfortable environment might actually stifle creativity by making it too easy to settle into routine patterns of thought. The presence of noise or technical difficulties forces writers to adapt their thinking, pushing them out of complacency and encouraging them to find unique solutions. This kind of disruption can lead to richer and more dynamic writing as the writer is compelled to navigate obstacles creatively.

E.L. Doctorow was an American novelist celebrated for his insightful explorations of history and society through the lens of fiction. His works often interwove historical events with personal narratives, creating compelling stories that were both historically accurate and emotionally resonant. Known for his distinctive narrative style, he encouraged readers to view their own lives as rich sources of storytelling material, much like how he saw every challenge in writing as an opportunity for growth.