Is Stephen King a good author? (any english lit majors?)?

hey everyone. I am wondering what people think about Stephen King as an author. I know 'many' people really enjoy reading his books, but is he truly a good author? Will he be considered a clic in years to come? If not, where would you place him amongst his contemporaries? Please substantiate your responses. I'm not really interested in partisan fans proclaiming how much they love him. I am looking for good reasons as to why he is or is not a good author. Thanks.