Terry Southern (1924–1995) was an American author, screenwriter, and essayist, known for his distinctive satirical style. He was a part of the post-World War II literary movement in Paris and a prominent figure in the 1960s countercultural scene. Southern's work spans a range of genres, including fiction, non-fiction, and screenplays, often characterized by dark humor, irreverence, and a scathing critique of American culture and politics. Perhaps his most famous contributions were to the screenplays of iconic films such as "Dr. Strangelove or: How I Learned to Stop Worrying and Love the Bomb," which he co-wrote with Stanley Kubrick and Peter George, and "Easy Rider," co-written with Peter Fonda and Dennis Hopper. Southern's novels, including "Candy" and "The Magic Christian," further showcase his talent for blending satire with comic absurdity. His work has influenced many contemporary writers and filmmakers, and he remains a notable figure in the landscape of 20th-century American literature and cinema.