It has never been easier for a programmer to translate an idea into reality and see their work impacting the lives of others in a short period of time. It has also never been easier for a programmer to support themselves on projects of their own choosing.

There is plenty of drudgery in programming. But there is also plenty of drudgery in rock climbing, being an astronaut, or deep sea diving. If you choose experiences in any endeavor that are all drudgery and mundanity then of course you will experience an absence of excitement. It is silly to pretend that isn't a choice.