Why do we need to know more about the author when surveying a text

Knowing more about the author can help provide context and insight into their intentions, beliefs, values, and experiences, which can in turn help us better understand and interpret the text. Understanding the author's background can also help us identify any biases or perspectives that may have influenced the writing, and can provide valuable information about the historical and cultural context in which the text was written. Additionally, knowing about the author can enhance our appreciation and engagement with the text, as it allows us to make connections between the author's life and work, and to better appreciate the complexity and richness of their writing.