The ignorance of author studies is one reason for the verge condition of literature.Based on interviews with ten contemporary American writers including Richard Powers,and with the help of anthropological methodology of fieldwork and oral history,the paper gives an analysis of the personal experience,educational background,professional status,and writing environment of contemporary American writers.Most writers have the opportunity to receive writing instruction,and have taken various occupations in their early career.Most young writers are MFA graduates and many famous writers choose to hold teaching positions in universities,and enjoy the facilities and good peer communications.The study of American writing condition may help to bridge literary creation and criticism,and draw attention to the reflection of the meaning of literature.