This paper seeks to analyze the relationship between cancel culture and the literary concept of authorial intent. In recent years, questions regarding “cancel culture’s” effects on the public’s ability to enjoy a “problematic” author’s work have been discussed. By analyzing two different literary theories, ‘art for art’s sake’ and New Criticism, which both relate to literature’s autonomy and connection to an author, readers are better able to understand the distinction between removing an author from the public’s favor and completely canceling their oeuvre.