Joan Didion's literary craft is distinguished by a deep concern with aesthetics and moral truth, themes that permeate both her fiction and nonfiction. Her body of work reveals an almost rhythmic shift between these two formats, each piece offering a rigorous examination of societal landscapes and their profound effects on individual lives. At the heart of her writing lies an exploration of individuality, persistently challenged by external forces.

Since her debut novel, Run River in 1963, Didion has evolved into a singular and vital voice in American literature. Her essays and reviews regularly grace the pages of major newspapers and periodicals, reflecting the high regard in which her work is held. The frequent inclusion of her writings in anthologies and academic syllabi further underscores her influence and the enduring relevance of her insights.

Didion's work, particularly noted in Slouching Towards Bethlehem and the novel Play It As It Lays (1970), demonstrates a profound engagement with existentialist thought. She captures the existentialist’s sense of rootlessness and anxiety, confronting the existential void with a resolve to extract meaning from life. Acknowledging the world’s inherent disorder and chaos, Didion aligns with the existentialist belief that life's significance is carved from personal decisions. Her commitment to viewing existence through the prism of personal responsibility underscores her conviction that life is not inherently devoid of meaning.

With each new publication, Didion’s reputation has only grown more formidable. Critics often describe her as an "antiromantic realist," someone who holds a mirror to her era, scrutinizing and questioning the truths she discovers. Her perspective might not always align with popular sentiment, yet it remains steadfast in its commitment to uncovering truth, unflinching in its honesty and clarity.