[nradov]

We have no shortage of cultural value. There is far more excellent writing out there than anyone can possibly consume (at least in English and other widespread languages). This is not something that we should subsidize with tax dollars.

For better or worse, luck probably matters more than quality in determining whether a particular writer breaks through and earns enough money to live. They can do everything right and still fail. Aspiring writers need to accept that reality with grace.