Yes, it was a quote in reference to the different styles that the various NTs would use for playing chess.
I just started as a software developer. Programming is so much fun! I do have a couple of ISTP coworkers, and they get shit done, but they approach problems with some rigidity... and they lack the flare and abstract skill in writing their code. We've fired one of them, and we (the NTs) are often cleaning up what the other ISTP writes.
Additionally, the programming industry is booming. We've had a reduction in the # of US college students graduating with CS[1]. I agree that you should follow your passions (I have many passions outside of programming) but if you're looking for a JOB to pay the BILLS, and if you want to be able to pay for writing lessons, and if you want more vacation time, and if you want to live in a comfy apartment in the center of town, and if you want to be able to eat out a lot so that you can eavesdrop on stranger's conversations for inspiration for your story... learn how to code.