What writer needs: initially staying away from container of liquid courage (3-6)

I believe the answer is:

ink-bottle

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'what writer needs initially staying away from container' is the definition.
I can't tell whether this definition defines the answer.

'liquid courage' is the wordplay.
'liquid' becomes 'ink' (ink is a kind of liquid).
'courage' becomes 'bottle' (bottle can mean courage).
'ink'+'bottle'='INK-BOTTLE'

'of' acts as a link.

Can you help me to learn more?

I've seen this clue in The Independent.

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