May 07

Born in 1795 in New Lebanon, New York, William Buell Sprague served as a Presbyterian minister for over fifty years. He gained prominence for his 'Annals of the American Pulpit,' a multi-volume biographical compendium of notable American clergy. His meticulous research preserved the lives and works of hundreds of ministers and shaped early American religious history. Sprague also authored sermons, theological essays, and historical writings that contributed to American scholarship. His work remains a valuable resource for historians studying American religion and society in the 18th and 19th centuries. Sprague’s combination of pastoral experience and scholarly rigor set a standard for biographical and historical writing.

Margaret Larkin (1899–1967) emerged as a distinctive voice in American letters with her evocative poetry and prose. She drew inspiration from regional folk traditions, collecting songs and stories as part of her work with the Federal Writers’ Project. Larkin published several volumes of poetry and short fiction that explored themes of community, identity, and social justice. Her writing was praised for its lyrical quality and insightful observations of everyday life. Beyond her literary output, she lectured on folklore and mentored aspiring writers at workshops and universities. Larkin’s dedication to preserving cultural heritage and addressing contemporary issues has secured her place in American literary history.

Alison Uttley (1884–1976) produced an extensive body of work spanning over fifty years. She is celebrated for creating the beloved Little Grey Rabbit series, which introduced readers to the gentle adventures of woodland creatures. Uttley’s deep appreciation for the English countryside imbued her stories with vivid descriptions of rural life. In addition to children’s fiction, she wrote memoirs and essays reflecting on her upbringing in Derbyshire. Her characters resonated with readers for their warmth, humor, and sense of wonder. Uttley’s legacy endures through generations of children who continue to discover her charming tales.

Mort Weisinger (1915–1978) began his career as a newspaper journalist before joining DC Comics in 1948. As an editor of the Superman line, he introduced iconic concepts such as Supergirl, the Legion of Super-Heroes, and the Phantom Zone. Weisinger’s meticulous editorial approach and promotional talent boosted sales and revitalized interest in superheroes. He mentored writers and artists, fostering talents like Curt Swan and Otto Binder. Beyond comics, he wrote mystery novels and film scripts that showcased his narrative skills. Weisinger’s entrepreneurial spirit and creative vision left an indelible mark on popular culture and the comic book industry.

Haldun Taner (1915–1986) was a leading voice in modern Turkish theatre and literature. He studied sociology in Geneva and literature in Berlin before returning to Turkey to pursue writing. Taner’s one-act plays, such as Keşanlı Ali Destanı, combined satire, folklore, and political commentary to captivate audiences. His short stories and essays further showcased his wit and critical eye on social issues. Taner co-founded the Arena Theatre in Istanbul, fostering innovative stagecraft and new playwrights. His work continues to influence Turkish theatre and remains a staple of literature curricula.

Clement Greenberg was born in 1909. He became one of the most influential art critics of the 20th century. His essays promoted Abstract Expressionist artists like Jackson Pollock and Willem de Kooning. He emphasized formalism and modernist values in art. Greenberg served as an editor for Partisan Review. His critical theories shaped art discourse for decades. He died in 1994, leaving a lasting impact on art criticism.

Jacques de Bourbon-Busset was born in 1912 into the French nobility. He wrote novels, essays, and philosophical works blending literature and moral reflection. De Bourbon-Busset served in various political offices, including the Senate. He was a member of the Académie française, recognized for his literary contributions. His writing often explored themes of freedom, faith, and humanism. He balanced his literary career with public service and diplomacy. He passed away in 2001, leaving a legacy as both writer and statesman.

Tristan Egolf was born in 1971 in Lancaster, Pennsylvania. He gained attention with his debut novel 'Lord of the Barnyard', noted for its gritty realism. Egolf's writing tackled themes of marginalization and class struggle. He became active in progressive political causes and grassroots activism. Egolf also founded independent literary magazines to support emerging writers. His bold style influenced a new generation of underground authors. He died in 2005, remembered for his passionate voice and social commentary.

Isabella Blow (1958–2007) was an influential English magazine editor and style muse. She championed emerging designers such as Alexander McQueen and Philip Treacy, shaping modern fashion. Blow's bold personal style and flair made her a fixture in the fashion world. She worked for Vogue and Vanity Fair, bringing unconventional creativity to mainstream publications. Her mentorship and eye for talent had a lasting impact on the industry. She died on May 7, 2007, leaving behind a transformative legacy in fashion.

Octavian Paler (1926–2007) was a Romanian essayist, journalist, and politician renowned for his philosophical reflections. He served as a member of the Romanian Senate and advocated for cultural and civic freedoms. As a journalist, Paler contributed to major newspapers and published thought-provoking essays on society and morality. His literary works include collections of essays and aphorisms that remain influential. Paler's writing combined poetic language with deep humanist values. He passed away on May 7, 2007, leaving a legacy as one of Romania’s most respected intellectuals.

Born in 1929, John Dixon was an Australian-American author and illustrator with a passion for adventure storytelling. He achieved fame as the creator of the long-running comic strip 'Air Hawk and the Flying Doctors,' blending aviation thrills with dynamic artwork. Dixon's engaging narratives and distinctive style captivated readers around the world for decades. He worked across both Australian and American publishing markets, influencing a generation of comic artists. In addition to his signature strip, Dixon illustrated numerous books and periodicals, showcasing his versatile talent. His legacy endures in the vibrant panels and adventurous spirit of his work.

Born in 1930, Aase Foss Abrahamsen was a prolific Norwegian writer whose work resonated across generations. She authored numerous novels and stories, often exploring themes of family, identity, and the human condition. Abrahamsen also made a significant impact in children's and young adult literature, earning critical acclaim. Her storytelling blended emotional depth with a keen sense of observation, captivating readers of all ages. Over her career, she received several literary awards recognizing her contributions to Norwegian culture. Her writings continue to inspire with their warmth, insight, and unwavering empathy.