@Pandora Fucking so say we all.
The only thing I'd add is that the OTHER major difference between an author and a role player is that an AUTHOR is someone who is intentionally trying to use the craft of writing a novel to create an entire story, cast of characters, and plot all by themselves for the purpose of publication with regular edits and chapter-focused scenes. A ROLEPLAYER is someone who is socially playing a form of make-believe for their own enjoyment, be it with text or dice or handcuffs or plaid skirts.
Mercedes Lackey (ole MMO clanny of mine) once told me "Roleplaying isn't writing". She is 100% right. Writing is a whole lot more than just making a character and trying to showcase it, and IMO if people on these games stopped considering it to be some kind of avant-garde writing showcase it might be a more inclusive environment.
Wanna write? Go for it. Create a plot, characters, and get into the craft of writing dialogue between 2+ characters, forging moving chapters, and wrapping it up into the great American novel. I'm sure plenty of people are willing to help edit.
