My opinion: writing is a lonely job, just you and your pen & paper. Adding a bottle makes it seem more lively, at least at the beginning.
I also think it might make you feel like you are writing more creatively, even though from my experience, when I looked at my drunk writing output, it was usually subpar, but I did sometimes have ideas that I might never have had while sober.
I think anyone who drinks and has no external supervision to catch him, like a job with a boss or co-workers, has a higher chance to fall into the bottle.
That needs clarifying. I meant, "remain the happy, healthfully intoxicated friend..."
Your thoughts on writers and the bottle make sense. Thanks. Also, my congratulations and admiration to you on your recovery, Rob.