Here's a breakdown of the main factors:
* Early Years: Dahl was a good student, but he wasn't particularly passionate about writing. He initially pursued a career in the oil industry after leaving school.
* The War: During World War II, Dahl served as a fighter pilot in the Royal Air Force. This experience had a profound impact on him, leading him to explore his feelings and experiences through writing. He began writing short stories about his wartime experiences, which were published in magazines.
* The Accident: In 1943, Dahl was seriously injured in a plane crash, which left him with chronic pain for the rest of his life. This physical pain may have also spurred his writing, providing him with a sense of purpose and escape.
* Meeting the Publisher: His writing caught the attention of a renowned literary magazine editor, who encouraged him to pursue writing full-time. This event was crucial in solidifying his career path.
* Inspiration from his Daughters: Dahl's daughters served as a major source of inspiration for his children's books. He wanted to create stories that would entertain and engage young readers.
It wasn't until his late 30s that Dahl truly committed to writing as his primary profession. His success with short stories led him to longer forms of writing, and he eventually became one of the most beloved and bestselling children's authors of all time.
So, while Dahl didn't start writing as a child with dreams of becoming a famous author, a combination of life experiences, inspiration, and a little bit of luck pushed him towards his remarkable career.