Writer vs author.

Barthes made a distinction between author and writer. Whilst the former performs a function, the latter an activity.

 

The author has the power to discover the grandest notions yet he is trapped by language.

 

The writer is largely an academic. He is not from the literary institution and his job is to explain, instruct or argue a case. So for him, the language is a tool of communication he can manipulate. Language doesnít manipulate him.

 

Unfortunately, because of his lack of mastery for language, he cannot sell books whilst the author cashes in on book sales. Why?

 

Is Barthes being overly precise on the author-writer definition?