ghostwriting

Ghostwriting is the practice of writing content that is officially credited to another person. A writer produces material for a client who is identified as the author or speaker. Ghostwriting is common across genres and media, including books, articles, blog posts, speeches, memoirs, white papers, screenplays, and song lyrics. The client supplies the project brief, voice guidelines, and research, while the ghostwriter crafts the draft and revises it to fit the intended persona or brand. In some cases the client and writer collaborate closely; in others the ghostwriter works mainly from notes or interviews.

Contracts typically determine ownership and attribution. The client usually owns the rights to the work; the ghostwriter may sign away copyright and receive a flat fee, a hourly rate, or royalties. Public credits vary: some ghostwritten works list the client's name with no acknowledgment of the writer, others use phrases like "ghostwritten by" or "as told to" in the credits. Work-for-hire arrangements are common in corporate communications and entertainment.

Ethical considerations center on transparency and consent. Ghostwriting can raise questions about authenticity, accountability, and authorship credit. In journalism and academic contexts, anonymity is generally discouraged or prohibited, and misrepresentation can be unethical or illegal. In memoirs or political speeches, ghostwriters may be presented as staff writers or speechwriters, with varying degrees of disclosure.

Industry status: Ghostwriting is a legitimate and widespread professional service. Rates vary by experience, genre, and project scope. Successful ghostwriters may specialize by voice or field, and many work through literary agencies or writing houses. The practice enables individuals and organizations to produce content that meets time, expertise, or branding needs while maintaining a public figure's identity.