I think young writers should get other degrees first, social sciences, arts degrees or even business degrees. What you learn is research skills, a necessity because a lot of writing is about trying to find information.

Irvine Welsh's quote emphasizes the importance of research skills for young writers. He suggests that before diving into writing, aspiring authors should consider pursuing degrees in social sciences, arts, or even business. The reason for this is that these fields foster the development of critical thinking, analytical skills, and research techniques, which are crucial for any writer.

The origin of this thought lies in Welsh’s understanding that much of writing involves gathering information. Whether it's fiction or non-fiction, writers often need to delve into various subjects to build compelling narratives, understand different perspectives, and provide accurate details. Welsh believes that research is a foundational element of good writing, and thus, exposure to diverse academic disciplines can better equip a writer for this task.

By suggesting these alternative degrees, Welsh highlights the broader perspective that writers can gain from studying subjects outside of pure literary education. He argues that the world of writing is deeply intertwined with learning about human nature, society, and business practices—areas covered in the social sciences, arts, and business. Such knowledge enriches a writer’s work, making it more informed, nuanced, and relatable.

Ultimately, the quote serves as a reminder that good writing goes beyond crafting sentences; it's about understanding the world, asking the right questions, and finding the right information. Welsh encourages young writers to be well-rounded individuals who can draw on diverse knowledge to fuel their creative and intellectual work.