March 14

Friedrich Gottlieb Klopstock (1724–1803) was a pioneering German poet whose work helped lay the groundwork for the Romantic movement. Born in Quedlinburg, he studied classics at the University of Jena before gaining fame with his epic poem Der Messias. His writing broke with neoclassical traditions and celebrated emotional depth and spiritual themes. Klopstock also wrote lyrical odes and tragedies that showcased his linguistic skill and philosophical insights. His influence can be seen in the works of Goethe, Hölderlin, and other later writers who valued individual expression. Klopstock’s commitment to poetic innovation makes him a crucial figure in the evolution of German literature.

Hovhannes Shiraz was born Hovhannes Baghdasarian on April 27, 1915, in Alexandropol (now Gyumri), Armenia. He adopted the pen name 'Shiraz' after the Iranian city famed for its poetic heritage. Shiraz published over 30 collections, including 'The Armenian Pan' and 'Evening Lamp', which resonated deeply with readers. His work often explored themes of love, nature, and the legacy of the Armenian genocide. He served as president of the Writers' Union of Armenia and received numerous accolades for his literary contributions. He passed away on March 14, 1984, and is remembered as one of Armenia's greatest modern poets.

John Broome was an influential American writer born in 1913 who helped shape the Golden Age of comic books. Working for DC Comics, he co-created legendary characters such as Green Lantern, The Flash, and the original Atom. Broome’s imaginative storytelling and character development set new standards for the genre and inspired countless writers. His scripts expanded the scope of superhero narratives and contributed to the enduring popularity of these characters. Broome passed away in 1999, leaving a legacy at the heart of modern comics.

Pierre Schoendoerffer began his career as a combat cameraman during the First Indochina War, capturing frontline footage that earned him recognition for its raw authenticity. He directed the Oscar-winning documentary 'The Anderson Platoon' (1967), chronicling American troops in Vietnam. Schoendoerffer adapted his own experiences into feature films such as 'The 317th Platoon', blending factual accounts with dramatic storytelling. His work is celebrated for its intense realism and insightful portrayal of the human impact of war. Throughout his career, he authored novels and screenplays, bridging literature and cinema. He received multiple awards at international film festivals, establishing himself as one of France's most respected filmmaker-writers.

Aramais Sahakyan emerged as one of Armenia's leading literary figures, publishing his first poems in the 1960s. His work blended traditional Armenian folklore with modern themes, giving voice to cultural memory and national identity. He held editorial positions at leading literary journals, fostering new talent in the Armenian writing community. Sahakyan's poetry collections earned him national awards and recognition among peers. He was an influential figure in literary circles, mentoring younger authors and promoting Armenian letters abroad. His legacy endures through his lyrical contributions that continue to inspire readers and writers alike.