Pretend Author

by Mu Jeong

"A good book, a book you want to write, a book that's needed, a book that sells"
"Kim Bak-chae, do you know? The sound of a fake author tearing open a ramen packet..."

"Pretend Author" by Lee A Metafiction Unraveling the Intricate Tapestry of Literature, Reality, and the Writer's Journey

In this thought-provoking metafiction, Lee Gim-mi candidly explores her own literary world and philosophy through the lens of a fictional novelist, Lee Gim-mi, and her debut work "Pretend Author." The novel follows the journey of Kim Bak-chae, a character created by Lee Gim-mi, as he navigates the complex landscape of the literary world, grappling with the tension between artistic integrity and commercial success.

Through a series of fictional critical essays exchanged between the imaginary critics Park Jeong-woo and Choi Jeon-young, the author delves into various aspects of literature, offering a multifaceted examination of the craft. This inventive narrative structure allows Lee Gim-mi to confront the challenges and realities faced by countless writers in today's world.

"Pretend Author" fearlessly questions the ethics of representation, the commodification of literature, and the authentic voice of the writer in an era where success is often measured by sales figures and social media buzz. As Kim Bak-chae's journey unfolds, readers are invited to ponder the true meaning of being a writer and the sacrifices one must make to pursue this noble calling.

With its sharp wit, introspective depth, and bold experimentation, "Pretend Author" stands as a testament to Lee Gim-mi's unwavering commitment to her craft. This metafiction not only entertains but also provokes readers to consider the role of literature in our society and the myriad pressures writers face in their quest to create meaningful, impactful works.

For anyone who has ever dreamed of writing a book, "Pretend Author" offers a raw and honest portrayal of the writer's life, reminding us that the path to literary success is paved with ramen packets, rejection letters, and the unshakable belief in the power of the written word.

64 pages, Kindle Edition

Published April 20, 2025

About the author

"An author who presents a realistic depiction of South Korea's materialism, which has been accelerated by media dependency in the post-pandemic era."

Jeong Mu is a trailblazing author from Seoul, South Korea, born in 1994. He built a strong academic foundation with a major in Physics, complemented by his current studies in Computer Science. Jeong’s early professional life was marked by a four-year tenure as a software engineer and planner in the automobile industry, equipping him with a keen sense of precision and planning.

In 2023, he became a commissioner at the Seoul Youth Policy Network, dedicating himself to the betterment of youth policies. Transitioning to literature, Jeong's innovative approach has made him a standout figure as he became the first in South Korea to collaborate directly with translators, thereby pioneering the entrance into the US independent publishing scene. This endeavor underscores his status as a vanguard of the independent publishing movement in the South Korean literary field.

Jeong's debut novel, "A Mirror for the Blind," is not only a narrative feat but also a significant stride in international independent publishing, bridging literary worlds between the US and South Korea.