Carson McCullers was an American novelist and playwright known for her exploration of loneliness and spiritual isolation in the Southern United States. She wrote her first novel, 'The Heart Is a Lonely Hunter', at the age of 23, which became a critical and commercial success. McCullers continued to create works that delved into complex human emotions and struggles, such as 'Reflections in a Golden Eye' and 'The Member of the Wedding'. Her unique style and insightful portrayals of characters have solidified her reputation as a significant voice in American literature.