The celebrated author known for their exploration of Southern Gothic themes is Flannery O'Connor. Her works, such as A Good Man is Hard to Find and Everything That Rises Must Converge, delve into the complexities of morality, class, and human nature in the American South. O'Connor's distinctive style combines dark humor with deep insight into the human condition, characterized by grotesque characters and shocking events. She has left an indelible mark on American literature, and her exploration of spiritual and ethical themes continues to resonate with readers today.