Dr.Darwin composed most of his works by writing his thoughts on scraps of paper wherever he happened to be.

Watt learned chemistry and mathematics while working at his trade of a mathematical instrument-maker.

Henry Kirke White learned Greek while walking to and from the lawyer's office where he was studying.

Dr.Burney learned Italian and French on horseback.

Matthew Hale wrote his "Contemplations" while traveling on his circuit as judge.
The present time is the raw material out of which we make whatever we will.