Meaning: The quote you provided is a reflection on the relationship between society, writers, and the struggles they face, particularly with alcoholism. The quote mentions the work of Lewis Hyde, who has written about alcoholism, poets, and the societal expectations placed on writers. Additionally, the quote is attributed to Sharon Olds, an acclaimed poet known for her candid and emotionally evocative work.

Let's start by exploring the reference to Lewis Hyde. Lewis Hyde is an author and cultural critic known for his book "The Gift: Creativity and the Artist in the Modern World." In this book, Hyde explores the concept of the "gift economy" and its relevance to artists and writers. He delves into the idea that creativity is a gift that artists receive and share with the world, and he discusses the challenges and pressures that artists face in a society that may not always value their contributions. Hyde also examines the relationship between creativity and alcoholism, particularly in the lives of poets and writers.

The quote suggests that Hyde has written about alcoholism and poets, indicating that he may have explored the correlation between creativity, mental health struggles, and substance abuse within the literary community. This could be a reference to the romanticized image of the tortured artist or the perception that suffering is somehow linked to artistic brilliance. Hyde's work likely delves into the complexities of this issue and its impact on writers and their well-being.

Furthermore, the quote alludes to the role that society assigns to writers, implying that there is an encouragement for them to die. This poignant statement raises questions about the societal pressures and expectations placed on writers, as well as the romanticization of the tormented artist. It speaks to the idea that society may inadvertently contribute to the struggles faced by writers, whether through unrealistic expectations, lack of support for mental health issues, or the glorification of self-destructive behaviors.

Sharon Olds, the poet credited with the quote, is known for her powerful and introspective poetry that often delves into personal and emotional themes. Her work has garnered critical acclaim for its raw honesty and unflinching exploration of difficult subjects. As a prominent voice in contemporary poetry, Olds has addressed topics such as family dynamics, sexuality, and the human experience with a striking blend of vulnerability and strength.

Given Olds' reputation for addressing challenging and thought-provoking themes in her poetry, it's likely that the quote reflects her perspective on the struggles faced by writers, particularly in relation to societal expectations and the impact on their well-being. The reference to "fine books and essays" suggests that there is existing literature exploring these issues, indicating a broader conversation within the literary community about the challenges faced by writers and the influence of societal attitudes.

In conclusion, the quote you provided offers a glimpse into the complex interplay between writers, society, and the struggles they may encounter, particularly concerning alcoholism and societal expectations. Through the references to Lewis Hyde and the poetic insight of Sharon Olds, it highlights the nuanced and multifaceted nature of this topic, inviting further exploration and reflection on the relationship between creativity, mental health, and the role of writers in society.