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. "
Yes. What about being a heavy drinker is necessary or interesting to the story? It just gives the main character something to do with time off, it seems. Many times, I think it’s meant to make them “interesting”, when most heavy drinkers I know aren’t. They like to talk about… drinks and drinking. 🤷🏻♀️ Plus, it’s usually a man or a woman trying to be like a man.