what is a pulp fiction? can Erich Segal be called a pulp fiction writer?

Question

Erich Segal is one of the most popular fiction writers.He has written LOVE STORY,THE CLASS, DOCTORS, etc.

Answer 1

Pulp Fiction is defined as the type of fiction found particularly in inexpensive "Pulp" magazines.

I believe Erich's works have reached well beyond these publication types. So in a strict sense the answer would have to be NO.

Answer 2

Pulp fiction actually relates to the quality of the paper the work is printed on. It can be book or magazine format. Wood pulp paper is the most inexpensive. It feels rough, doesn't last long, and the print isn't as crisp as with higher quality paper like cotton rag. It is very acidic, so it turns brown ("foxes") and can crumble at the edges.

Authors with a more literary bent, that were taken more seriously, would have their work printed on better quality paper. Not every pulp edition means a mediocre author, though. Sometimes it was just a reprint for the masses.

I personally would not consider Segal a pulp author. Those were mostly mysteries, thrillers, and early science fiction.

Answer 3

For an in-depth definition of pulp fiction, see
http://www.vintagelibrary.com/pulpfiction/PulpFictionCentral.php

I would say "no" Segal is not a pulp fiction writer.
Segal is a professor of Greek and Latin literature at Wolfson, College, Oxford. While some of his novels could be considered popular (i.e. not serious "literary fiction") I don't think he fits the definition.