Who is an author ?, Other Topics

[KASTURI SETHI]

Dear Experts,

I am keen to know who is an author and what are characteristics of an author in real terms.

Thanks a lot.

Posts / Replies

[YAGAY andSUN]

Dear Respected Kasturi Sir,

That’s a thoughtful and reflective question—one that reaches beyond just the dictionary definition. Let’s explore both who an author is and what truly defines an author in real terms, beyond just being someone who "writes books."

🧑‍💻 Who Is an Author?

At its simplest, an author is someone who creates original content in the form of written works—whether books, articles, scripts, essays, blogs, or other literary expressions.

But in real and deeper terms, an author is a creator of ideas, a communicator of thought, and a mirror to society. The word "author" comes from the Latin auctor, meaning "originator" or "promoter." So, an author is not just a writer, but someone who initiates a conversation, provokes thought, and crafts narratives that shape how we understand the world.

🧠 Characteristics of a True Author

Here are the defining traits and characteristics that make someone an author in the truest sense:

1. Originality

An author expresses unique thoughts, perspectives, or narratives—even if they draw inspiration from common experiences. They don’t just repeat what’s already said; they add something new to the conversation.

2. Intentionality

Every word is chosen with purpose. Authors write not just to inform, but to influence, provoke, inspire, entertain, or challenge. There's always an underlying message or mission.

3. Voice and Style

A real author develops a distinct voice—the literary fingerprint that readers come to recognize. Whether it’s lyrical, minimalist, biting, or whimsical, that voice becomes part of their identity.

4. Empathy

Great authors see the world through multiple lenses. They can step into the shoes of others, understand different emotions, and reflect the complexity of human experiences.

5. Discipline and Craftsmanship

It’s not just about bursts of creativity. Authors show discipline—researching, revising, editing, and polishing. They treat writing like both art and craft.

6. Courage

Being an author often means being vulnerable. It means sharing personal truths or confronting controversial issues. Authors have the courage to be honest, even when it's uncomfortable.

7. Curiosity

Authors are lifelong learners. They observe, ask questions, and dig deep. Curiosity fuels their stories and strengthens their authenticity.

8. Responsibility

Words have power. A true author understands the impact of what they write—on culture, society, readers, and even themselves.

✍️ Beyond the Page

Being an author doesn't require publishing a bestseller or winning a literary prize. It's more about the intent, impact, and integrity behind the words.

Whether it's a poem in a diary, an article on climate change, or a novel set in a fantasy world—what matters is the authorship of ideas and the commitment to sharing them in a meaningful way.

Regards,

YAGAY & SUN

*** 

[YAGAY andSUN]

Dear Respected Kasturi Sir,

Whether AI falls under the category of an author or not?

That's a great and timely question—does Artificial Intelligence (AI) qualify as an "author"? The answer depends on legal, philosophical, and practical perspectives, and it’s still evolving worldwide. Let’s break it down clearly:

✅ What Is an Author (Traditionally)?

An author is legally and culturally recognized as:

• A natural person (human being),

• Who creates an original work through their intellectual effort, creativity, and expression.

This definition is enshrined in copyright laws across most countries, including India, the U.S., and EU nations.

🤖 Does AI Qualify as an Author?

Legally (India & Most Jurisdictions):

• No, AI is not considered an author under current copyright laws.

• In India, the Copyright Act, 1957 defines an author as a human creator (e.g., for books, music, art).

• AI is considered a tool, not a legal person.

✅ If AI is used to generate content, the human or entity that operates or programs the AI may be considered the author.

Globally:

• U.S. Copyright Office (2023 ruling): Explicitly stated that works created solely by AI cannot be copyrighted.

• UK law: For computer-generated works, the author is the person who made the arrangements for the creation (Section 9(3), Copyright, Designs and Patents Act 1988).

• EU: Similar approach—human creativity is essential for authorship.

🧠 Philosophically and Practically:

• AI can simulate creativity but lacks:

  • Consciousness

  • Intent

  • Moral responsibility

• So, while AI may produce text, music, or art, it doesn't possess authorship in the human sense.

👥 Who Owns AI-Created Works?

In most scenarios:

• The user, employer, or developer who initiates or arranges the AI creation process is treated as the "author" or rights holder.

📝 Example:

If you use AI to generate a story or design:

• You, the human who directed or prompted the AI, are typically considered the author or owner (unless the law or contract says otherwise).

🔍 In Conclusion:

AI is not an author under Indian or global copyright laws.
Humans behind the AI—developers, users, or businesses—retain authorship and ownership rights, depending on the context.

Regards,

YAGAY & SUN