Must I ALWAYS use literary present when doing a research paper/ essay, even if the author is dead?

Question

am doing a research paper on how Flannery O'Connor's life influenced her work. She did 45 years ago. I understand that I have to use literary present in regard to her particular writing, stories, characters, etc. But what about her action?
example: O’Connor’s work is/was greatly influenced by her strong Catholic faith, her Southern heritage, and her rapidly deteriorating health.
Do I use is or was?

Answer 1

I always use past tense. It one thousand times easier!

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