Hey there, Authors!
Have you ever wondered why we often say things like “that book changed my life” or “I can’t believe this author just nailed everything I’ve been feeling”? Or, why some authors’ words resonate deeply with readers and their influence extends far beyond their books?
It’s not just because the plot is mind-blowing or the characters are cooler than your favorite movie stars (though that’s also true sometimes). The real magic lies in the power of author influence—how the authors we love can shape not only our thoughts but also the world around us. The question is: How do they cultivate it, and is it possible for you?
First things first, What is Author Influence?
Author influence is the ability to inspire, educate, entertain and transform readers through your writing. It’s the power to shape opinions, spark conversations, and create a loyal community of right-thinkers. I shared extensively on this in our blog on “The Power of Ideas: How Your Book Can Shape the Future”. (If you haven’t read it, you should definitely do that.)
So, grab a cup of tea or coffee (as is our custom), get comfortable and let’s dive into the wonderful ways authors have the ability to influence not just readers, but entire cultures.
1. The Subtle Art of Changing Minds
At its core, reading is not just about escaping reality for a bit (though, yes, that’s a nice perk). It’s about reshaping the way we see the world, whether we realize it or not. Authors—whether they’re scribbling fantasy epics or writing everyday memoirs—hold a quiet but intense power to change the way we think.
If you’ve ever thought about wealth, success, or financial freedom, chances are you’ve heard of or even read Think and Grow Rich by Napoleon Hill. First published in 1937, this book has become a cornerstone of personal development and success literature. But here’s the thing—its influence goes beyond just helping people make money. It actually redefined the way we approach finances, self-worth, and how we view success. In other words, Hill didn’t just teach us how to get rich; he changed the mindset behind it.
Or how about Harper Lee? The To Kill a Mockingbird addressed themes of racial injustice, morality, and the loss of innocence in the American South during the Great Depression. The story of Atticus Finch defending a black man, Tom Robinson, falsely accused of raping a white woman, resonated deeply with readers and helped spark discussions about racism, social inequality, and the law in both the U.S. and around the world. The novel became a classic, shaping conversations about race and justice for generations, and its influence can be seen in legal and educational reforms, as well as in popular culture, where it is often cited for its moral lessons. and let’s face it—that is the mark of true author influence.
2. Authors as Social Activists (Without Even Trying)
We often think of political activists as those who march in the streets or speak out at rallies. But guess what? Writers can be activists too, and often, they do it without even realizing the full extent of their influence.
Consider the likes of Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie, whose novel Americanah delves into issues of race, immigration, and identity. Through the lens of the protagonist, Ifemelu, the book critiques the experience of Africans living in the diaspora and highlights the complexities of race in both Nigeria and America. Also, herTED Talk “We Should All Be Feminists” delivered on April 12, 2013 made waves all over the world. In 2014, it was published as an elaborated essay, and the following year an organization in Sweden gave a copy to every 16 year old in high schools across the country.
Adichie uses her writing as a platform to challenge existing power structures and speak out against injustices—particularly those related to gender and race—making her not only a literary figure but also an influential activist in the modern world. Her work has inspired many to question societal norms and advocate for a more equal world.
When an author’s words become a movement? Well, that’s influence at its finest.
Similarly, in an interview with Valuetainment’s Patrick Bet-David a few years ago, bestselling author of The 48 Laws of Power (and other books), Robert Greene, shared that he sets out to write a book only when he finds a widespread societal notion that he considers incorrect, from observation and research. So, he writes mainly to correct misconceptions and misrepresentations, with a view to realigning outcomes to the universe’s original design. Speak of enduring influence!
3. Changing Language and Creating Trends
Have you ever caught yourself saying something you read in a book, and suddenly realized it’s become your new catchphrase? Don’t worry, you’re not alone! One of the sneaky ways authors influence us is by shaping language. They introduce words, phrases, or even entire ways of thinking that start trending.
Think about how often we hear phrases like “living your best life” or “YOLO” (you only live once, if you didn’t know; and if you didn’t know, I might be slightly concerned).
These phrases didn’t come out of nowhere—they were coined by people who had a way with words and, sometimes, a sense of humor. For instance, authors like Shakespeare are responsible for some of the most common phrases we still use, like “break the ice,” “wild-goose chase,” and “heart of gold.” Their influence doesn’t just live in the world of books; it trickles down into the language we speak every day.
4. The Emotional Roller Coaster That Leads to Change or Finding Self
Want to know a secret? Authors have this amazing superpower: they can make us feel things we didn’t even know we were capable of feeling. Whether it’s laughing so hard or crying so hard, books can trigger emotions that spark introspection and personal growth.
Remember the first time you read Half of a Yellow Sun by Chimamanda Adichie? The pain, the sadness, the realness—it’s enough to shake you at your core. Books like that create a kind of emotional resonance that sticks with you, often altering how you approach life. After reading that book, many people (myself included) probably thought a little harder about our history, independence, and the value of the lives of our past heroes.
Authors help us explore the human condition, and their words can guide us through our own personal transformations. So when you’re feeling lost or unsure, it’s no surprise that the right book at the right time can be like a lifeline. A well-written story doesn’t just entertain—it helps you find yourself.
5. A Friend, a Mentor, and a Guide
Let’s face it—sometimes, books are better friends than people. Authors become our mentors, guiding us through life’s awkward moments, teaching us things we didn’t know we needed to learn, and offering us comfort when we feel like we’re alone in the world.
Whether it’s a self-help guru or a fictional character that feels like a long-lost best friend, authors have an uncanny way of making us feel understood.
Ever read a book and thought, “Oh my gosh, this author totally gets me”? That connection is exactly the kind of influence we’re talking about. Authors often write not only to inform, but to connect—and in doing so, they create lasting relationships with their readers.
6. The Unseen Influence of Humor
Let’s not forget about humor. Good authors have the magical ability to make us laugh at life’s absurdities, which, let’s be honest, makes everything a little easier to handle. Think of the witty talented african author, Buchi Emecheta in her book The Joys of Motherhood, how she addresses serious themes such as gender, identity, and societal struggles. Her humor shines through in her sharp, satirical writing style. How she uses humor to highlight the complexities and contradictions of motherhood in a traditional Nigerian society. The humor in her writing allows her to convey deep messages while making readers smile, even in the midst of tackling heavy topics.
Humor is a gentle way of influencing. When authors make us laugh, they also make us think, and sometimes, that’s the best kind of change. A good laugh can shift your perspective, and a funny book can spark a revolution in the way you view the world.
In Conclusion
So, the next time you pass on completing that manuscript or book you’re pregnant with, understand that you missed one step closer to being a Trendsetter. And remember this, authors are not just creators of worlds—they are shapers of minds, cultures, and realities. The influence of a good author goes far beyond pages and ink, it extends into your soul, your conversations, and even your actions.
And in case you’re dealing with doubts, fears, or any of the other challenges intending authors deal with, you should see this article on Overcoming Author Pain Points in 2025.
So, when next you pick up a book, know you’re not just getting a story—you’re getting a piece of the author’s power. Also know that someone somewhere is in need of your power as an author, and that’s nothing to take lightly.
Remember this: You’re next in line. Your words could be the ones that change the world.
