The words author and writer are often used interchangeably, but if you’re serious about becoming an author, it is important to understand the difference between these two terms. An author is a person who writes things, specifically books and other formal literary works such as academic papers and journal articles. The word author is also a verb, meaning to “authorize” or “to write as an author.”
While anyone who puts words on paper can be considered a writer, only authors have the opportunity to become recognized for their work and gain authority and recognition through their writings. A significant part of the role of an author is to promote their own work and build a platform on which to share it with the world. Authors are also expected to possess a certain level of expertise in their field and be able to convey this knowledge in their writing.
One of the first steps to becoming an author is to decide what type of work you’d like to create. This should be based on your interests and a passion for the genre you plan to write in. Once you have a solid idea of what kind of story you want to tell, it is time to start creating your platform. This is a process of building a website that will serve as the home base for your book and will give potential readers an opportunity to connect with you and learn more about you, your writing style, and your publishing journey.
Creating a website is also a great way to begin building your author credentials. This is because an author website serves as a way for you to show publishers that you are committed to your career and have the resources to dedicate to it. It is also a great place to include information about your background, education, occupation, past writings, and any other relevant details that will help you establish yourself as an expert in your subject matter.
In addition to an author website, it is crucial for an author to have a social media presence on which they can promote their work and build an audience. In today’s world, it is almost impossible to establish a strong writing career without having a robust online presence.
The concept of authorship has undergone a significant evolution over the years, with profound implications for literature and society. For example, Foucault critiqued the traditional notion of the author as a genial creator who produces a work with infinite significations, while Barthes argued that authors are no longer a fixed entity but rather a constructed identity shaped by cultural and institutional forces. These changes in the perception of authorship have made it necessary for writers to continually challenge existing norms and ideas and push the boundaries of accepted discourse in order to achieve authenticity and authority. This defiance is what gives an author’s work its unique voice and appeal. If you are a writer, understanding the history and philosophical underpinnings of authorship will allow you to approach your craft with a sense of purpose and commitment to producing works that contribute meaningfully to literature and society.