I write every day weekdays for about 5 hours, mostly longhand on legal pads. It has gotten neither harder nor easier, sadly or happily.

In this quote, Daniel Handler, the author best known for writing under the pen name Lemony Snicket, shares insights into his daily writing routine. He mentions that he writes for about 5 hours every weekday, primarily using longhand on legal pads, rather than typing on a computer. This highlights his preference for a traditional, hands-on method of writing, which contrasts with the more modern, digital approaches many writers use today. Handler reflects on the consistency of his writing process, noting that it has neither become significantly easier nor harder over time, which suggests a stable, disciplined approach to his craft.

The origin of this statement likely comes from Handler's personal reflection on his writing journey. As a seasoned author, he acknowledges that the act of writing itself—though part of a well-established routine—remains a challenge, regardless of his experience or success. This comment reveals a sense of discipline and routine in his work ethic, where the act of writing itself, while not getting any easier or harder, remains a consistent part of his daily life.

Handler's use of longhand and legal pads indicates that he finds value in a slower, more deliberate process of writing, one that allows for greater thoughtfulness and perhaps a more personal connection to the material. By choosing to write in this manner, he contrasts with the faster, often more impersonal writing done on a computer, suggesting that this approach is important to him for its own artistic reasons.

Ultimately, Handler’s quote speaks to the difficulties and discipline inherent in the writing process, while also acknowledging the personal satisfaction or stability that comes from a consistent routine. It reflects his understanding that writing, no matter how experienced one becomes, remains a challenging yet essential part of his creative identity.