I agree that there’s a moralistic overtone, though I would guess the author was not trying to shed it.

He equates all forms of consumption, despite the fact some are far more passive than others. (I think some of the earliest studies on this were books versus movies.) Consumption might be useful in the form of research on one’s essay topic. ;)

That said, creation - well, here I fall into the same trap, equating all types of creation, but let’s say creating things that take at least a little bit of effort - is something I too find quite satisfying, and I am glad he is getting some enjoyment out of it.