author

literature

Also known as: litterateur

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Last Updated: May 25, 2025 • Article History

Related Topics:: literature; intentionality; putative author

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author, one who is the source of some form of intellectual or creative work; especially, one who composes a book, article, poem, play, or other literary work intended for publication. Usually a distinction is made between an author and others (such as a compiler, an editor, or a translator) who assemble, organize, or manipulate literary materials. Sometimes, however, the title of author is given to one who compiles material (as for publication) in such a way that the finished compilation can be regarded as a relatively original work. The word is ultimately from the Latin auctor, “authorizer, responsible agent, originator, or maker.”