Author-centric

Author-centric describes a perspective, narrative, or work of art that prioritizes the author's intentions, experiences, and viewpoints above all other considerations, including the audience's interpretation, the characters' internal lives, or the broader thematic implications. It often manifests as a focus on the author's personal journey, reflections, or self-expression, potentially at the expense of objectivity or the reader's engagement. This approach can shape storytelling, critical analysis, and the valuation of creative works. It can be characterized by a perceived lack of attention to reader agency, leading to a perceived sense of control or self-indulgence.

Author-centric meaning with examples

• The novel's flaws stemmed from its author-centric approach, primarily fixating on the author's personal struggles. The narrative felt overly introspective, constantly reminding the reader of the writer's life. This emphasis on the author's inner world sometimes distanced the reader from the characters and the overall plot, creating a barrier to genuine emotional investment. The book was a clear case of prioritizing the writer's perspective over universal themes or relatable experiences.
• Many critics deemed the director's new film author-centric, viewing the cinematic choices as exercises in self-aggrandizement. The film's obscure symbolism and convoluted narrative seemed solely designed to reflect the director's artistic vision, often at the expense of clarity and audience enjoyment. The director's lack of consideration for different viewpoints and its self-referential focus alienated many viewers, leaving them feeling excluded from the creative process.
• Analyzing the poem, some scholars found the interpretation author-centric. They argued that the analysis solely relied on biographical details, instead of considering the poem's inherent structure and use of language. Critics found that it dismissed alternative readings, instead focusing on how the work mirrored the poet’s life experiences. This limited their ability to explore other meanings beyond the writer’s specific perspective, reducing the poem's broader significance.
• In the realm of literary criticism, a writer might be accused of author-centric bias when analyzing a text. Instead of objective evaluation based on plot, setting, and character development, the critic focused on the author's biography and intended message. Such an approach may lead to a skewed assessment, potentially overemphasizing the author's role and downplaying other essential factors. The goal should be to balance the author's influence with broader literary concepts.