July 03

Joseph Quesnel (1746–1809) was a pioneering French-Canadian composer and playwright renowned for creating one of North America’s earliest operas. Born in France, he emigrated to Montreal as a merchant and shipowner, where he pursued his passion for music and theater. His opera 'Colas et Colinette' blended European classical traditions with colonial themes and is considered a milestone in Canadian cultural history. Quesnel also wrote several plays and songs that captured the spirit and challenges of life in New France. His dual career as an entrepreneur and artist exemplified the creative energy of the early Canadian settler society.

Nguyễn Đình Chiểu (1822–1888) was a blind Vietnamese poet, teacher, and scholar whose works inspired resistance to French colonialism. Writing in Nôm script, he composed epic poems such as 'Lục Vân Tiên' which combined Confucian ethics with nationalistic themes. Despite losing his sight at a young age, he taught classical literature and instilled a sense of moral duty and patriotism in his students. Chiểu’s poignant verses emphasized social justice and loyalty, resonating deeply with the Vietnamese people during times of upheaval. He is celebrated as one of Vietnam’s greatest literary figures and a symbol of cultural resilience.

Joel Chandler Harris was an American journalist and author who popularized African-American folktales in the late 19th century. Born in Eatonton, Georgia, in 1845, he began his career as a printer's apprentice and later worked for The Atlanta Constitution. In the 1880s he created the Uncle Remus character, collecting tales of Br'er Rabbit and other folk characters. His Uncle Remus books brought Southern oral traditions to a national audience. Though celebrated for preserving folklore, his use of dialect has generated controversy. Harris's work remains influential in American literature and folklore studies.

Born in Mississippi in 1888, Ransom emerged as a leading voice in 20th-century American letters. He was a founding member of the Fugitives and co-authored the influential Southern Agrarian manifesto. Ransom's poetry showcased formal precision, exploring themes of tradition and modernity. As editor of The Kenyon Review, he championed New Criticism and shaped literary scholarship. He taught at Kenyon College for decades, mentoring generations of writers. Ransom's work earned him a National Book Award and enduring influence in criticism.

Born in Montreal in 1931, Mordecai Richler wrote over a dozen novels, including the international bestseller "The Apprenticeship of Duddy Kravitz," which earned him critical acclaim. His sharp wit and satirical style captured the complexities of Jewish life in Canada and the cultural tensions within Quebec. Richler also wrote screenplays, children's books, and works of non-fiction, exploring themes of identity and belonging. He won numerous awards, including the Governor General's Award for fiction. Beyond literature, he was an outspoken social critic and commentator, engaging in public debates on politics and culture. Richler's influence endures through his vibrant characters and incisive humor.

Alauddin Al-Azad (1932-2009) was a leading Bangladeshi writer celebrated for his novels, short stories, and poetry that delved into the themes of liberation, cultural heritage, and human struggle. He penned numerous works that captured the spirit of post-independence Bangladesh with lyrical prose and poignant imagery. Al-Azad contributed to literary criticism and mentored emerging writers through his editorial work. His storytelling combined rich cultural references with universal questions of identity. His legacy endures in the generations of Bangladeshi readers and writers inspired by his craft.

John Keel (1930-2009) was an American journalist and prolific author famous for his investigative work on UFOs and the paranormal. His 1975 book The Mothman Prophecies explored unexplained creature sightings in West Virginia and inspired a major motion picture. He wrote more than 20 books covering cryptids, high-strangeness events, and supernatural lore. Keel's skeptical yet open-minded approach challenged both believers and critics to reconsider the boundaries of reality. His work shaped modern UFO discourse and continues to influence paranormal research.

Born in 1944, Francis Ray became one of the leading voices in contemporary romance literature. Her novels, often centered on African-American characters and communities, resonated with readers for their heartfelt storytelling and emotional depth. Throughout her career, she wrote numerous bestsellers that garnered critical acclaim and a devoted fanbase. Ray's work helped broaden the scope of the romance genre and elevate diverse narratives within popular fiction. She passed away in 2013, remembered for her influential contributions to American literature.

Born in 1951, PJ Torokvei began her career as an actress before finding her niche as a screenwriter. She contributed to several popular comedy films in the 1980s, bringing a unique blend of wit and character-driven humor to the screen. Her scriptwriting helped define the comedic tone of the era and earned her recognition within the film industry. In addition to her film work, Torokvei wrote for television, showcasing her versatility as a storyteller. She passed away in 2013, leaving behind a portfolio of comedic writing that continues to entertain audiences.

Born in 1948, Snoo Wilson became known in the 1970s as part of London's avant-garde theater movement. His plays, marked by surreal imagery and sharp social commentary, challenged traditional dramatic forms. Wilson also wrote screenplays for film and television, bringing his imaginative vision to broader audiences. His ability to blend fantasy with biting humor made his work distinctly original and influential. Over his career, he pushed the boundaries of theatrical storytelling and inspired many contemporary playwrights. He died in 2013, leaving a lasting impact on modern drama.

Born in 1924 in what is now Ukraine, Zalman Schachter-Shalomi survived the turmoil of World War II before emigrating to the United States. He became a prominent rabbi known for blending Hasidic mysticism with modern interfaith dialogue. In the 1960s, he founded the Jewish Renewal movement, emphasizing spirituality, social justice, and inclusivity. He authored numerous books on Jewish thought, spirituality, and personal growth, influencing scholars and laypeople alike. Schachter-Shalomi held academic positions at universities and rabbinical training institutes. His charismatic teaching style and visionary approach shaped contemporary Jewish practice. He passed away in Boulder, Colorado, in 2014, leaving a legacy of innovation and compassion.