The phrase "literary luminaries" refers to highly respected and prominent figures in the field of literature. It describes writers who are considered shining stars or brilliant individuals in their work. Full definition
Whitman, who self - published his first book, Leaves of Grass, in 1855, immediately started sending copies of his work to literary luminaries in search of praise. (gse.harvard.edu)
Yes, it's the same Max Perkins who was editor to such literary luminaries as Ernest Hemingway and F Scott Fitzgerald. (moviereviewsfromthedark.com)
But when Alden Mudge (who has been conducting interviews with literary luminaries for BookPage since long before my tenure here) writes that Last Night in Twisted River contains «some of the most entertaining and intellectually playful storytelling of Irving's career,» I sit up and take notice. (bookpage.com)