Question

i have to write an essay about why authors use pen names, pseudonyms, and aliases. basically the main topics are 1.allows authors freedom, flexibility, an opportunity. 2.turning to a pen is the only way to get published sometimes. 3. women use fake names to overcome discrimination and get publishers to take them seriously. 4. even today some authors adopt a pen name in order to stem biases and preconceived notions. can someone please write an essay on this. i am giving all my points i have

Answer 1

Q: Why do authors use pseudonyms?

A: Authors write under pseudonyms, or pen names, for a variety of reasons. Established authors will do it to cross genres and keep from aggravating their fan bases. Wouldn’t you be a bit ticked off if you bought Stephen King’s next book expecting blood, guts and hair-raising intensity, only to find out it’s a weepy romance novel? King may choose to publish under a different name so he doesn’t disappoint his die-hard horror fans.

Another reason for using a pen name is to switch publishers. When an author is under contract, her publisher may own the rights to any upcoming work under her name. Often authors will take up a new name so they can shop around their work while avoiding legal problems (be sure to read your contract closely, though, because some prohibit this).

But one of the most common reasons authors write under aliases is because their earlier works bombed. If a writer didn’t make money for the publisher the first time, he’s not likely to get a second chance—publishers would prefer to give someone new a shot. Under a pen name, a writer can be reborn.