[onion2k]

I don't think I understand that quote. Is that Maugham saying you don't actually need inspiration so you can just sit down and work without it? Or is he sarcastically saying jobs are badly configured because you can't just sit down at nine o'clock and produce something good? It could mean either.

[ggggtez]

It's sarcasm. One possible interpretation is that money is a strong motivator, and writers generally don't make money by not writing.

[greyman]

I think it is the first - that he doesn't rely on the motivation, and instead uses discipline.

[stinkytaco]

Also that discipline begets motivation. Exercise every day. Pretty soon you feel bad if you don't exercise.

[bbctol]

I interpreted it as saying you can train inspiration to arrive, just like anything else, with enough discipline.