March 31

John Donne began his professional life as a lawyer and served as a Member of Parliament before taking holy orders. As Dean of St Paul's Cathedral, he delivered powerful sermons that combined persuasive rhetoric with theological insight. Donne's poetry, including works like 'A Valediction: Forbidding Mourning' and 'Death Be Not Proud,' exemplifies the metaphysical style. He employed unusual metaphors known as conceits to explore themes of love, faith, and mortality. His writings bridged the gap between the Elizabethan and Jacobean literary traditions. Donne's influence extended to both poetry and prose, shaping English literature through his innovative voice. Today, he is revered as one of the greatest poets in the English language.

Born in present-day Nigeria, Equiano was enslaved as a child and later purchased his freedom in 1766. He worked as a sailor and merchant, traveling across Europe and the Americas. His autobiography, 'The Interesting Narrative of the Life of Olaudah Equiano,' became a bestseller in 1789. Equiano's vivid account of enslavement and his call for justice energized the British abolitionist cause. He lectured before Parliament and campaigned against the slave trade, collaborating with figures like William Wilberforce. Equiano's writing combined personal testimony with arguments for human rights and equality. His legacy persists as a pioneering voice for abolition and African diaspora literature.

Charlotte Brontë (1816–1855) was a renowned English writer whose novel Jane Eyre revolutionized Victorian fiction with its blend of gothic intrigue and psychological depth. Writing under the pen name Currer Bell, she defied societal norms to explore themes of morality, gender, and social class. Born in Thornton, Yorkshire, Brontë drew upon her own experiences and the rugged moors to craft vivid, emotionally resonant settings. In addition to Jane Eyre, she authored novels Shirley and Villette, further showcasing her narrative skill and insight into human character. Her poetic works reveal a lyrical sensibility and emotional intensity. Brontë's literary legacy endures as a cornerstone of English literature, inspiring countless adaptations and debates on feminist themes.

Jean Moréas (1856–1910), born Ioannis A. Papadiamantopoulos, became a central figure in the French Symbolist movement after moving to Paris. In 1886, he published the Symbolist Manifesto, defining its principles and distinguishing it from Decadence and Naturalism. His poetic works, including Les Stances and Poèmes antiques, blend classical themes with modern imagery, showcasing his mastery of form. As an art critic, Moréas contributed insightful essays to prominent journals, championing avant-garde painters and sculptors. His writings bridged Greek heritage and French literary innovation, reflecting a cosmopolitan sensibility. Through both poetry and criticism, Moréas influenced contemporaries like Stéphane Mallarmé and Gustave Kahn. His contributions helped solidify Symbolism's lasting impact on European art and literature.

Vladimír Holan was one of the foremost Czech poets of the 20th century, known for his complex, introspective style. His poetry collections, including "Vanutí" (1934) and "Melancholické procházky" (1941), explored themes of existentialism, faith, and national identity. Holan's verse often employed rich symbolism and linguistic experimentation, setting him apart from his contemporaries. During World War II and subsequent political repression, his work reflected the angst and moral dilemmas of his time. Despite censorship, he continued to write, and his later poems combined mysticism with harsh social commentary. Holan received the prestigious Jaroslav Seifert Prize posthumously and remains a towering figure in Czech letters.

Enid Bagnold was an English novelist, playwright, and memoirist best known for her classic 1935 novel "National Velvet" about a young girl and her champion horse. Born in 1889, she drew on her experiences in artistic and military circles to create diverse characters and settings. Her plays, such as "The Chalk Garden", examined psychological depth and unconventional relationships. Bagnold's writing spanned genres, including biography and autobiography, offering keen observations on human nature and wartime society. She was appointed to the Order of the British Empire for her literary contributions. Her work continues to be adapted for stage and screen, reflecting her enduring impact on English literature.

Christina Stead was an Australian novelist and academic renowned for her razor-sharp insight into domestic and social dynamics. Her masterpiece "The Man Who Loved Children" (1940) is hailed as one of the greatest English-language novels, depicting a dysfunctional family with dark humor. Stead's writing style combined psychological depth with satirical wit, exploring power and relationships. She worked as a writer and editor in the United States and Europe, engaging with literary and artistic circles. Her other notable works include "For Love Alone" (1944) and "The Little Hotel" (1973). Stead's fearless storytelling and innovative narrative techniques have secured her place among 20th-century literary figures.

Barry Took was born in Byfleet, Surrey in 1928. He co-created and wrote for landmark shows such as 'Round the Horne' and 'Monty Python’s Flying Circus'. As a performer, he appeared on radio panel shows like 'Take It from Here' and 'The News Quiz'. Took served as the founding controller of BBC Radio 2, shaping British broadcasting. He authored several books on comedy history and interviewed comedy legends. His witty style and keen understanding of humor influenced generations of writers. He died in 2002 at the age of 73, remembered as a pioneer of British comedy.

Alan Fitzgerald built a distinguished career in journalism, contributing to leading newspapers and magazines. He authored several books that explored Australia's history and contemporary issues. His clear writing style and thorough research made complex topics accessible to a wide audience. Fitzgerald's work influenced public debate and provided valuable perspectives on national identity. His legacy lives on through his written contributions to literature and journalism.

Cocoa Fujiwara (1983–2015) was a Japanese manga artist and illustrator who gained recognition for her charming character designs and evocative narratives. She began creating manga in her youth and contributed to various Japanese magazines. Her works blended whimsical aesthetics with poignant themes, earning her a dedicated fan base. Despite her untimely passing at 31, her artistic legacy continues to influence manga creators. Her contributions to the world of illustration are remembered for their creativity and depth.

Ronnie Corbett (1930–2016) was a beloved Scottish comedian and actor whose career spanned over six decades. He rose to fame alongside Ronnie Barker in the BBC sketch show 'The Two Ronnies,' delighting audiences with his witty monologues and comedic timing. Known for his charming personality and diminutive stature, he also appeared in films and stage productions. As a screenwriter, he co-wrote many of the show's memorable sketches and monologues. His enduring influence on British comedy is celebrated for its warmth, humor, and ingenuity.

Imre Kertész (1929–2016) was a Hungarian author and Holocaust survivor whose literature examined human dignity under extreme oppression. His autobiographical novel 'Fatelessness' earned international acclaim and won the Nobel Prize in Literature in 2002. Born in Budapest, he was deported to Auschwitz at age 14 and later wrote essays reflecting on totalitarianism and freedom. His poignant narratives blended personal experience with universal themes of memory and exile. Kertész’s literary legacy continues to influence discussions on history, morality, and the human condition.