March 12

Paul Gerhardt was born in 1607 in Gräfenhainichen, Germany. After studying theology, he became a Lutheran minister and turned to hymn writing during the ravages of the Thirty Years' War. His lyrics express deep faith and comfort, often set to melodies by contemporary composers. Gerhardt published hymns in the influential collection Praxis Pietatis Melica. His most famous works include 'O Sacred Head Now Wounded' and 'There Is a Green Hill Far Away.' Recognized for his poetic skill and theological insight, Gerhardt's hymns continue to be sung worldwide.

Medo Pucić (1821–1882) was a leading figure in the Croatian national revival known as the Illyrian movement. He wrote poetry, essays, and plays that celebrated South Slavic culture and language. As a politician, he served in the Dalmatian Diet and advocated for greater autonomy under Austro-Hungarian rule. His literary works blended Romanticism with patriotic themes, inspiring future generations of Croatian writers. Pucić's efforts contributed significantly to the formation of modern Croatian identity. His legacy endures in Croatian literature and the broader South Slavic cultural awakening.

Born in 1860 into Baltic nobility, Stenbock embraced a bohemian lifestyle in London society. His poetry and short stories often explored themes of death, melancholy, and the supernatural. Works such as Studies of Death showcased his vivid imagination and contribution to the Decadent movement. Stenbock's unique blend of gothic horror and romanticism garnered a cult following. Despite his early death in 1895, his experimental style influenced later writers of fantasy and horror.

Born in 1863, D'Annunzio rose to fame with his passionate poetry and flamboyant prose. He served with distinction during World War I and became a national hero. As a playwright and novelist, his works like The Pleasure captured the spirit of the Italian Decadent movement. D'Annunzio led the occupation of Fiume in 1919, showcasing his flair for political theater. His style and nationalist fervor later influenced the cultural landscape of early 20th-century Italy. He remained active in literature and politics until his death in 1938.

Tian Han (1898–1968) was a pioneering Chinese dramatist, poet and playwright, considered one of the founders of modern Chinese theater. He co-founded the Creation Society in the 1920s, promoting New Culture Movement ideals. In 1935, he wrote the lyrics to the song that later became the national anthem of the People's Republic of China, 'March of the Volunteers'. Tian served as chairman of the Chinese Writers Association after 1949, supporting literary development. During the Cultural Revolution, he was persecuted and imprisoned, and died in custody, later rehabilitated posthumously for his contributions to Chinese culture.

Sylvi Kekkonen (1900–1974) was a Finnish author known for her novels, short stories and poems exploring themes of nature and human relationships. As the wife of President Urho Kekkonen, she served as Finland's First Lady from 1956 until her death in 1974, hosting diplomatic events and supporting cultural initiatives. Her notable works include 'Elämän siivet' ('Wings of Life') and 'Ihmiset vaskisissa takeissa' ('People in Brass Coats'). Kekkonen's writing was praised for its lyrical style and introspective depth. She balanced her literary career with public duties, leaving a legacy in both Finnish literature and social life.

Petras Cvirka was a Lithuanian author and a prominent voice in interwar literature. He produced novels and short story collections that vividly depicted rural life and the challenges of social change. His writing style combined realism with lyrical descriptions of the Lithuanian landscape. He played a significant role in shaping Lithuanian national literature during the 1930s and 1940s. Although his career was cut short, his works remain influential in Lithuanian literary circles.

Irving Layton was a Romanian-born Canadian poet and academic. He published over 60 volumes of poetry, known for their passionate and often provocative themes. Layton's work challenged social norms and explored themes of love, religion, and nationalism. He taught at McGill University, inspiring generations of Canadian writers. His influence on 20th-century Canadian poetry remains profound.

Millard Kaufman was an American writer born in 1917, celebrated for his sharp dialogue and inventive storytelling. He co-created the beloved cartoon character Mr. Magoo and contributed to the world of animation. Kaufman penned screenplays for film noir classics like 'Brute Force' (1947), showcasing gritty realism and complex characters. His novels and short stories explored social issues and moral dilemmas with wit and empathy. Balancing work in Hollywood and publishing, he wrote for major magazines and literary collections. He passed away in 2009, leaving a diverse legacy in both literature and cinema.

Jack Kerouac was born in 1922 and emerged as a seminal voice of the Beat Generation. His novel 'On the Road' (1957) captured the restless spirit and quest for freedom of postwar youth through spontaneous prose. Kerouac's writings, including 'The Dharma Bums', explored themes of spirituality, personal introspection, and American identity. His distinct improvisational style influenced countless writers and became emblematic of the 1960s counterculture. Despite critical acclaim, he struggled with the pressures of fame and battled alcoholism throughout his life. He continued to publish novels, poems, and essays until his untimely death in 1969. Kerouac's legacy endures as a symbol of literary innovation and cultural rebellion.

Harry Harrison was an influential American science fiction author and illustrator. He is best known for the “Stainless Steel Rat” series and the novel “Make Room! Make Room!,” which inspired the film “Soylent Green.” Harrison’s satirical style and imaginative world-building earned him a devoted readership. He contributed illustrations to his own and others’ works, showcasing his versatile creativity. His career spanned over six decades, and he remains a cornerstone of speculative fiction.

John Clellon Holmes was an American writer, poet, and literary critic associated with the Beat Generation. His novel “Go” (1952) was the first fictional work to depict Jack Kerouac’s circle of Beat writers. Holmes wrote essays and reviews on jazz and literature, bridging mainstream and underground culture. He taught creative writing at Stanford University and influenced generations of writers. His works provide a vivid portrait of postwar American bohemian life.