Author

An author is a person who creates written works. The term covers writers of fiction and non-fiction, poetry, plays, essays, journalism, academic articles, and other texts. A work’s author is typically the person who conceived and composed the text, though many works involve multiple contributors or corporate entities as authors.

Authorship is closely tied to rights and responsibilities. In many jurisdictions, authors own copyright in their original works, granting exclusive rights to reproduce, distribute, display, perform, and adapt the work. When two or more people contribute to a single work, they may be considered joint authors. Works created by an employer or commissioned party can fall under works made for hire, with ownership assigned to the employer or client. Moral rights related to attribution and integrity vary by country.

There are various kinds of authors, including literary authors, journalists, academic authors, playwrights, screenwriters, and bloggers. Authors may publish through traditional publishing houses or choose self-publishing, digital platforms, or open-access models. The process typically involves drafting, revising, editing, and proofreading, with potential input from editors, reviewers, or peers.

Pseudonyms, or pen names, are common for authors seeking privacy or brand differentiation. Attribution practices ensure proper credit and may affect royalties, licenses, and scholarly citations. The rise of digital publishing and collaborative writing tools has broadened concepts of authorship beyond single, lone creators.

Historically, the notion of an individual author has varied. Some ancient works were attributed to legendary figures or considered communal creations, while modern systems emphasize identifiable authors and explicit attribution. Notable authors across genres include Dante, Jane Austen, Mark Twain, and Toni Morrison.