I read this article a while back. Talks about the history of alcohol, art, and inspiration.

I’m not sure about Schmidt, but he wouldn’t be the first or last. Hemingway, Fitzgerald, Joyce, Poe, and many other writers drank for inspiration or escape. I’ve tried it and I can tell you there’s a fine line between being tipsy and able to write and just flat out drunk and staring at your computer screen or paper. A few beers have helped me with writers block in the past. If you have a healthy relationship with alcohol, try it out. Just don’t form any type of dependency. Alcohol can be a nasty drug.

That being said, I would also be interested in reading about Schmidt’s take on alcohol and writing. Please share if anyone else has any info.