May 31

Ludwig Tieck (1773–1853) was a seminal figure in German Romanticism, known for his poetry, prose, and literary criticism. He co-founded the Jena Romantic circle and authored groundbreaking fairy tales and essays blending medieval themes with modern sensibilities. Tieck's works, such as 'Genoveva' and 'Der blonde Eckbert', introduced fantastical elements into German literature. He also translated Shakespeare into German and edited major literary journals. His critical writings helped shape 19th-century literary tastes. Tieck's legacy lies in his role bridging Enlightenment ideals with Romantic imagination.

Walt Whitman (1819–1892) revolutionized American poetry with his free verse style and expansive themes of democracy, nature, and the self. First published in 1855, Leaves of Grass challenged poetic conventions and embraced a direct, inclusive voice. Whitman's career spanned journalism and civil service during the Civil War, where he tended wounded soldiers. His later works, such as Drum-Taps and Passage to India, further explored spirituality and universal human experience. Recognized as the father of free verse, Whitman's influence extends to modernist and contemporary poetry. His innovative approach cemented his place as one of America's most important literary figures.

Saint-John Perse, born Alexis Leger, was a distinguished French poet and diplomat born in 1887. He served in the French diplomatic corps, holding posts in Asia and Latin America before becoming secretary-general of the French foreign office. Under the pseudonym Saint-John Perse, he published poetic works celebrated for their rich imagery and classical style. In 1960, he received the Nobel Prize in Literature for his powerful lyrical poetry that transcended national boundaries. His major works include 'Chronique' and 'Amers', which influenced 20th-century poetry. He retired to the United States later in life and died in 1975, leaving an enduring literary legacy.

Konstantin Paustovsky was a renowned Russian writer born in 1892, best known for his evocative travel memoirs and novels. He began his literary career with short stories inspired by his native Ukraine and the Black Sea coast. Paustovsky's lyrical style captured the beauty of nature and the complexities of human emotion. His major works include 'Story of a Life', an autobiographical series reflecting on Russia's tumultuous 20th century. He held various positions in literary journals and supported fellow writers during the Soviet era. Paustovsky received numerous awards for his contributions to Russian literature before his death in 1968.

He served as fiction editor for prominent magazines, where he championed new literary voices and influenced magazine publishing in the 1950s and 1960s. As a novelist, he explored themes of identity, morality, and the human condition in works that received critical praise. His essays and reviews appeared in major literary journals, reflecting his deep engagement with contemporary literature. Macauley also taught creative writing and mentored aspiring authors at university programs. His dual legacy as a writer and editor had a lasting impact on American letters.

Terry Waite served as a special envoy for the Church of England’s Archbishop of Canterbury and negotiated the release of hostages in the Middle East. In 1987, he was himself taken hostage in Lebanon and spent over four years in solitary confinement, later documenting his experiences in best-selling memoirs. Waite has since traveled extensively, advocating for reconciliation and human rights. His writings and lectures continue to inspire efforts for peace.

Born in 1945 in Bad Wörishofen, he became a leading voice of the 1970s New German Cinema. As a director, he crafted provocative films such as 'Ali: Fear Eats the Soul' and 'The Marriage of Maria Braun'. He often wrote and acted in his works, exploring themes of love, power, and social alienation. His prolific output included over 40 features and numerous stage and television productions. Despite his untimely death at 37 in 1982, his innovative style and daring storytelling have had a lasting impact. His films continue to be studied for their emotional depth and critique of post-war German society.

Born in New York City in 1945, Bernard Goldberg began his career at CBS News, where he won a Pulitzer Prize for investigative reporting in 1979. He joined Fox News in 2000 as a senior correspondent and commentator, focusing on media analysis and political issues. Goldberg authored several best-selling books, including "Bias" (2001) and "100 People Who Are Screwing Up America" (2005). Known for his critical perspective on mainstream media, he has been a prominent figure in the discourse on journalistic standards. He continues to host television and radio programs and speak publicly on media and politics.

Born in 1948, Svetlana Alexievich began her career as a radio reporter in Belarus, capturing personal testimonies across the Soviet Union. She pioneered the genre of literary reportage, compiling narratives from Chernobyl survivors in "Voices from Chernobyl" and women in war in "The Unwomanly Face of War." In 2015, she received the Nobel Prize in Literature for her polyphonic writings that give voice to ordinary people. Her works have been translated into more than 20 languages and have influenced modern approaches to history and memory. Alexievich continues to live and write in Belarus, bearing witness to personal and collective experiences.

Carole Achache was born May 31, 1952, in Strasbourg, France. She gained acclaim for her candid memoirs exploring themes of identity and memory, blending literary artistry with visual storytelling. As a photographer, Achache's work appeared in prominent magazines and exhibitions across Europe. She also showcased her versatility on screen, with roles in French independent films and theater productions. Her interdisciplinary approach bridged the gap between words and images, earning her a dedicated following. Achache's legacy endures through her published works and evocative photographs that continue to inspire artists and readers alike. She passed away in 2016.

Pirkka-Pekka Petelius was born May 31, 1953, in Kemi, Finland. He rose to fame in the 1980s with memorable roles in Finnish sketch comedies and films, becoming one of the country's most beloved performers. As a screenwriter, he crafted scripts that combined humor with social commentary, influencing Nordic television. He has won multiple awards for his work in both acting and writing. Beyond entertainment, Petelius is known for his charitable efforts, supporting children's education and mental health initiatives. With a career spanning over four decades, he continues to shape Finland's cultural landscape through his creativity and philanthropy.

Susie Essman was born on May 31, 1955, in New York City. She began her career as a stand-up comedian, performing in clubs across the United States and honing her sharp, observational style. Essman gained widespread recognition for portraying the fiery Susie Greene on Curb Your Enthusiasm, earning critical praise and a devoted fan base. Beyond television, she has written for comedy shows and provided voice work on series like Crank Yankers. Essman has appeared in films and toured internationally with her stand-up specials. Her fearless delivery and outspoken humor have solidified her status as a standout figure in contemporary comedy.