The wish of author Alexander Chee to have residencies for writers in trains is now transforming into a reality. It started with his interview with the group called Pen, a literature advocacy group. During the interview, he mentioned his desire for the Amtrak train company to have residencies for writers. He recalled his experiences while writing on a train and how perfect trains are for writing. He said that the long ride and relaxing place, coupled with the lovely views, are all perfect reasons for writers to enjoy writing while on a train.

Another writer Jessica Gross picked up this statement and she posted it on Twitter. Eventually, Amtrak gave their response; they said that they will offer a "writer's residency" program. This means that they will provide a free trip from New York to Chicago and vice versa. As of now, it is not yet an official program. Applications from writers are still dealt with on a case-by-case basis. However, the company is hopeful that this will turn into something more official in the future. The current process starts by Amtrak choosing the best writer to be given the free ride and the writer will then have access to the long-distance train ride for writing.

On a negative note, Amtrak is an underfunded company and providing free trips for writers is not really the way to go. It is remarkable that such a company is willing support writers in a symbolic way. This is why they have to weigh in the consequences first before taking this project into something more official.

Gross was ecstatic about this idea. She said that, as a writer, the pressure is dissolved once she is given the chance to write while on a long train ride. She believes that it is a unique environment for a creative thought. Since the news was out, more writers are interested in taking part in this program.