Google is my best friend and my worst enemy. It's fabulous for research, but then it becomes addictive. I'll have a character eating an orange, and next thing I'm Googling types of oranges, I'm visiting chat rooms about oranges, I'm learning the history of the orange.

In this quote, Liane Moriarty humorously reflects on the dual role of Google in her creative process. She describes how Google can be both her best friend and her worst enemy—a valuable tool for research, but also a source of addiction and distraction. Moriarty highlights the ease with which she can get sidetracked while writing, as she begins researching one simple detail, like an orange, only to find herself deep in a rabbit hole exploring everything from types of oranges to the history of the fruit.

Moriarty’s quote illustrates the way modern technology, especially search engines like Google, has transformed the process of research and learning. While it makes accessing information incredibly easy and efficient, it also opens the door to endless avenues of exploration that can pull her away from the task at hand. The quote speaks to the addictive nature of the internet, where a simple query can quickly lead to hours of unproductive, yet fascinating, exploration.

The origin of this quote comes from Moriarty’s experiences as a novelist, where research plays a crucial role in shaping the details and authenticity of her characters and settings. As an author known for her intricate plots and relatable characters, she likely relies on accurate information to build a world for her readers. However, her humorous reflection shows the distracting nature of the vast information available online, which can sometimes make the process of writing feel less efficient.

Ultimately, Moriarty’s words serve as a lighthearted commentary on the challenges of working in the digital age, where the convenience of information comes with the risk of becoming overwhelmed by the sheer volume of resources available. Her quote underscores the delicate balance between using the internet as a helpful tool while avoiding the pitfalls of procrastination and distraction that come with easy access to endless information.