I know this is probably a common topic. For me, I’m not sure if it’s a “trope” or just totally misinformed writing, but it’s how many authors approach alcoholism. Some examples are Girl on the Train and The House Across the Lake, among HUNDREDS. If anyone else here has struggled with alcoholism, you know it’s not just "i woke up after downing an entire bottle of whiskey but was able to shower, down a cup of coffee, and solve a murder. "
Hemingway was an exceptional alcoholic writer. It is common for authors to be alcoholics and there is a connection between intellect and alcohol/depression: the smarter someone is the slightly larger chance they turn to substance abuse. Ever heard of Hunter S. Thompson? F. Scott Fitzgerald? Edgar Allen Poe? Bukowski?
As someone who’s struggled with alcohol since age 18, I think a lot of good writing can be done while drunk or hungover. You just have to proofread it afterward, haha. But this trope has been upheld time and time again.
Are there any research that have proven that connection?