Who are your favorite authors and Why?

[failedALIAS]

I want to know and understand who it is that you lot may admire, for what reasons and perhaps, how they might have inspired you. You may list examples of particular publications, quote from their writing(letters, journals, biographies, etc.), the certain psychological aspects fulfilled through their meaning, or your meaning. Any and all is appreciated. I would like to remind everyone(and Kman) that this is a serious thread, so keep it mature. As much as I appreciate the expression of speech I wish to remind you that I have the power invested in me, with it it is my right to ask that the thread be closed if participants fail to follow basic manner-taking procedures.

My favorite Author - I shall not say,
But to give you a hint, I might;
He explored macabre literature by day
To suffer twisted terrors by Night.