Thomas Ligotti is an American horror author and philosopher. He is best known for his short stories and novels, which often explore themes of existential despair, cosmic horror, and the psychological effects of fear. His works have been praised by authors such as Stephen King, Neil Gaiman, and China Miéville. Ligotti's writing style is characterized by its dark, surrealistic, and often nihilistic themes. He has been described as one of the most influential horror writers of the 21st century, and his works have been adapted into films, television shows, and video games. Ligotti is also a noted essayist and has written extensively on topics such as philosophy, psychology, and the horror genre.