What is the Implied Author?

Abstract

Abstract The concept of the implied author (IA) proposed by Wayne C. Booth half a century ago has aroused heated critical debate. This paper offers a defense of Booth's concept, arguing that it is basically free from the theoretical contradictions alleged by many commentators who, for various reasons, have missed what the concept really refers to. Through a careful examination of Booth's discussions, the present study reveals the real referent of the concept and clarifies the picture in terms of the scope of activity, the agency in the narrative communication process, and in terms of the authorial image. Then the paper analyzes why narrative theorists tend to confine the IA within the text and why, in discussing the IA, attention tends to focus on uncommon cases of writing. Finally, the present study makes clear the relevance and significance of the concept in today's critical context — as distinct from that half a century ago.

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