Henry Balke, the nephew of Walter Tevis, the author of Queen’s Gambit, recalling his uncle’s work:
he often spent hours of a writing workday reading at random and rationalizing what appeared as lassitude. In fact, narrative ideas and stylistic nuance were forming in his brain much of the time. He tended to become bored, even with New York at his doorstep. This was a persistent temperamental trait, not dependent on the presence of diversions or interests. He spoke about it in interviews and conversations with me. When things coalesced, Walter wrote quickly and beautifully, scenes and characters emerging fully formed. He rarely produced work needing revision or a spot in his wastebasket.
Found on Headbutler