Dillard analyzes the origin of a writer’s inspiration with a catalogue of what different famous authors liked to write about. The subject matter is always something that the individual enjoys and wants to share in a way they believe only they can tell it. Many famous writers wrote about subjects beyond their direct experience or surroundings, so Dillard encourages writers to not feel restricted about their topics. However, Dillard notes that the writing must be so personal that it becomes part of the body. The writer’s brain changes its functions to incorporate literature, like how paint runs through a painter’s veins. Due to this bodily change, the writer must like their materials and should enjoy absorbing the literary work of others. Dillard observes that young writers often don’t want to be viewed as emulating anyone else, but she dismisses this naivety through a list of noted authors who were shamelessly inspired by the work of others. Constantly learning about literature and feeling the desire to expand upon and share what one has learned, she states, is not something to suppress.

Dillard then gives advice to aspiring writers about book-length projects. She prefers struggling towards a longer work because it offers a longer period to learn and develop as a writer.