William Clark Styron Jr. (June 11, 1925 – November 1, 2006) was an American novelist and essayist who won major literary awards for his work. Born in Newport News, Virginia, Styron was one of the greatest American writers of his generation. He published his first book, Lie Down in Darkness, at age twenty-six and went on to write such influential works as the controversial and Pulitzer Prize–winning The Confessions of Nat Turner and the international bestseller Sophie’s Choice.

Styron's work often explored complex themes and his narratives were known for their insight and psychological depth. His memoir, Darkness Visible (1990), detailing his struggle with depression, has been widely praised for its candid and insightful exploration of mental illness.