William S. Burroughs

Biography

William S. Burroughs (1914–1997) was an influential American author and cultural icon whose experimental works challenged literary conventions. Born into a prominent St. Louis family, he became a central figure of the Beat Generation, a literary movement that defined post-war American counterculture.

Burroughs is best known for his controversial novel Junky and his landmark work Naked Lunch, which employed innovative narrative techniques including the "cut-up method." His unflinching exploration of addiction, sexuality, and social critique influenced generations of writers and artists. Though his work remained controversial, Burroughs secured his place as a major literary figure whose impact on twentieth-century literature remains profound.