March 15

Salvator Rosa (1615–1673) was a multi-talented artist of the Italian Baroque era. He gained fame for his wild, romantic landscapes and dramatic historical scenes. Rosa’s works often featured bandits, soldiers, and mythological subjects set in rugged terrains. Beyond painting, he was a prolific poet and satirist, publishing collections of poetry and plays. His defiant spirit and anti-establishment themes made him both celebrated and controversial. Rosa also experimented with printmaking, leaving behind etchings that showcased his bold style. He influenced later Romantic painters and contributed to the rise of landscape painting as a major genre.

Johan Jakob Nervander (1805–1848) was a Finnish physicist, meteorologist, and poet. He studied natural sciences at the University of Helsinki and continued his research abroad in Germany and France. In 1836, Nervander founded the Helsinki Observatory and initiated systematic meteorological observations. He also published collections of romantic poetry that were well-received in Finnish literary circles. Nervander introduced new instruments for atmospheric measurement and geomagnetic study. His work laid the groundwork for organized weather forecasting and atmospheric science in Finland. Despite his early death, his interdisciplinary contributions endure in both science and literature.

Born in Providence, Rhode Island in 1890, Lovecraft published his first stories in pulp magazines. He created the Cthulhu Mythos, a shared universe of ancient cosmic entities and forbidden knowledge. Lovecraft's blend of horror, science fiction, and fantasy introduced a new dimension of existential dread. Despite limited recognition in his lifetime, his work achieved cult status after his death. He maintained an extensive correspondence with other writers, shaping early speculative fiction communities. Lovecraft's influence endures in literature, film, and popular culture for its imaginative depth and atmospheric terror.

Born in Stockbridge, Massachusetts in 1894, Field published her first poems as a teenager. Her novel 'Time Out of Mind' won the National Book Award and showcased her rich storytelling. Field wrote children's literature, including the enduring classic 'Hitty, Her First Hundred Years'. In 1941, she became the first woman to serve as president of the Authors Guild. Her work is celebrated for its imaginative flair, emotional depth, and poetic sensibility.

Born in London in 1888, Malleson began his career in the theatre, performing Shakespeare and modern plays. He transitioned to cinema in the silent era and adapted successfully to talkies in the 1930s. As a screenwriter, he contributed scripts for British and Hollywood films, collaborating with prominent directors. Malleson gained acclaim for his comedic timing and portrayal of eccentric characters. During World War II, he appeared in British war films, reflecting his commitment to the home front. His dual talents as actor and writer left a lasting mark on British theatre and cinema.

Born in Vinje, Norway in 1897, Vesaas began his literary career with poetry in Nynorsk. His novel 'The Ice Palace' is praised for its poetic style and deep examination of youth and loss. Vesaas wrote novels and short stories that explore themes of nature, isolation, and human emotion. He served as editor for several literary journals, championing modern Scandinavian writers. He received numerous awards, including the Nordic Council Literature Prize for his novel 'The Birds'. Vesaas's elegant imagery and psychological insight have influenced generations of authors.

Hubert Aquin was born in Montreal in 1929 and studied classical literature before exploring film and writing. He emerged as a leading figure in Quebec's literary renaissance of the 1960s with his debut novel 'Prochain épisode,' acclaimed for its innovative narrative and political introspection. An outspoken advocate for Quebec sovereignty, Aquin infused his work with themes of identity, exile, and revolution. He also co-founded Quebec's National Film Board studio, contributing to cinema through screenwriting and production. Aquin's literary style blended surrealism with sharp social critique, influencing generations of Canadian writers. He tragically took his own life in 1977, leaving a profound impact on Canadian literature and political discourse.

Rebecca West was born Cicely Isabel Fairfield in London in 1892. She began her career as a journalist and book reviewer, writing for publications such as The Bookman and Horizon. West rose to prominence with her 1919 travelogue 'Black Lamb and Grey Falcon,' offering a deep exploration of the Balkans' cultural and political history. A fierce commentator on politics, gender, and human rights, she authored novels like 'The Return of the Soldier' (1918) and essays in collections such as 'The New Meaning of Treason' (1940). Throughout her life, West championed women's suffrage and critiqued totalitarianism, blending intellectual rigor with literary grace. She was awarded the Order of the British Empire in 1952 for her contributions to literature. West died in 1983, leaving a legacy of incisive prose and fearless cultural criticism.

Dr. Benjamin Spock, born in 1903, revolutionized childcare with his 1946 book "The Common Sense Book of Baby and Child Care," which sold millions of copies. He advocated for a more affectionate, flexible approach to parenting, moving away from rigid Victorian norms. Spock's ideas sparked debates but empowered generations of parents to trust their instincts. Beyond medicine, he was a social activist, protesting war and advocating civil rights during the 1960s. His work left a lasting imprint on both medical practice and popular culture, making him one of the 20th century's most famous physicians.

Kazim al-Samawi was born in 1925 in Samawah, Iraq, and emerged as a leading voice in modern Arabic poetry. His work often addressed themes of political exile, social justice, and the human condition. After the rise of authoritarian regimes in Iraq, he spent decades living in Morocco, Hungary, and East Germany, where he continued to write and publish. Al-Samawi’s collections, such as The Mobius Strip and I Write with My Blood, earned him acclaim across the Arab world. He also served as a cultural diplomat, translating works and promoting literary exchange. His poetry is noted for its lyrical intensity and unwavering commitment to freedom. Al-Samawi returned to Baghdad briefly before his death in 2010, leaving a legacy of resilience and artistic innovation.

David Brenner was an American stand-up comedian and actor who became a nightclub sensation and frequent guest on 'The Tonight Show Starring Johnny Carson'. Born in 1936 in Philadelphia, he honed his observational comedy in local clubs before gaining national attention in the 1970s. Brenner went on to host his own late-night talk show and appeared in films and television programs, showcasing his sharp wit and affable personality. He authored several humor books, including his best-selling memoir, offering candid insights into his life and career. Brenner received multiple Emmy nominations for his television work and inspired a generation of comic performers. He died in 2014, remembered as one of America's most beloved comedians.

Born in 1947, Clarissa Dickson Wright initially trained as a barrister before turning to the culinary world. She became a household name in the 1990s with the BBC series Two Fat Ladies, celebrated for its adventurous recipes and her flamboyant style. Over her career, she wrote numerous acclaimed cookbooks that explored British and European cuisine. Known for her sharp wit and outspoken personality, she championed traditional cooking methods and classic ingredients. Beyond the kitchen, she was a keen huntswoman and advocate for rural life, often appearing in media discussions on countryside conservation. Her legacy endures in her influential cookbooks, television shows, and contributions to British culinary culture.