August 01

Luis Vélez de Guevara (1579–1644) was a prolific Spanish author and dramatist during the Siglo de Oro. He wrote more than 400 plays and numerous prose works, blending satire, adventure, and moral commentary. His novel El diablo cojuelo became a classic of picaresque literature and influenced later writers. Vélez de Guevara's theater works were performed at court and popular venues, often exploring social issues of his time. He navigated the tastes of both aristocratic and popular audiences with wit and creativity. His rich language and imaginative scenarios exemplify the literary flourishing of 17th-century Spain. His legacy persists in the study of Baroque literature and early modern drama.

Born in 1779 in Frederick, Maryland, Key practiced law in Washington, D.C., and Baltimore. During the War of 1812, he witnessed the bombardment of Fort McHenry and was inspired to write the poem 'Defence of Fort McHenry'. His verses were later set to music as 'The Star-Spangled Banner' and adopted as the United States national anthem in 1931. Key also served as a district attorney and continued his legal career until his death in 1843. His patriotic anthem remains a cornerstone of American identity.

Born in 1815 in Cambridge, Massachusetts, Dana graduated from Harvard Law School. In 1834, he sailed as a common seaman from California to South America, experiences he recounted in his classic memoir 'Two Years Before the Mast'. The book exposed harsh conditions faced by sailors and became influential in maritime reform. Dana later served as U.S. Attorney for the District of Massachusetts and defended fugitive slaves under the Fugitive Slave Act. He championed social justice causes until his death in 1882.

Born in 1819 in New York City, Melville went to sea as a merchant sailor and whaler in his early twenties. His maritime adventures inspired celebrated works such as 'Typee' and 'Omoo'. In 1851 he published 'Moby-Dick', a complex tale of obsession and the sea that gained recognition only years later. He continued writing novels and short stories, including 'Billy Budd', which was published posthumously. Melville's exploration of human nature and the sublime in his prose secured his place among America’s greatest writers.

Paul Horgan was a prolific American historian and author whose scholarship focused on the history and culture of the American Southwest. He won two Pulitzer Prizes for History for his books on regional subjects. Horgan taught at Rice University and influenced generations of students through his lectures and writings. His narrative approach combined thorough research with engaging prose, bringing historical figures and events to life. He also wrote novels and essays that explored human experiences against the backdrop of Western landscapes. Horgan’s work remains a seminal reference for scholars and enthusiasts of American history.

J. Lee Thompson (1914–2002) was a prolific director and writer whose career spanned over five decades. He began as a screenwriter before earning acclaim as a director of suspense, drama, and action films. Notable works include 'Cape Fear', 'The Guns of Navarone', and 'Ice Cold in Alex'. His ability to craft tense narratives and compelling characters made him a sought-after figure in both British and American film industries. He influenced a generation of filmmakers with his visual style and storytelling techniques.

Anne Hébert (1916–2000) was a major figure in Canadian literature whose work bridged poetry and prose. Her novels and short stories, including 'Kamouraska' and 'Les fous de Bassan', are known for their lyrical style and psychological depth. She received the Prix Governor General and other literary honors for her contributions to Francophone literature. Her writing often examined themes of isolation, family conflict, and the natural world of rural Quebec. Hébert's influence endures in contemporary Canadian letters, inspiring writers around the world.

Stanley Middleton (1919–2009) was a prolific writer whose novels often explored the subtleties of middle-class existence. He won the 1974 Booker Prize for 'Holiday', praised for its nuanced characters and quiet narrative style. Over his career, he published more than 40 novels, drawing on his experiences as a teacher and church organist. His work is celebrated for its introspective tone, rich psychological insight, and sense of place in the English Midlands. Middleton's contributions to literature earned him a dedicated readership and lasting critical acclaim.

Ernst Jandl was an Austrian poet and author celebrated for his playful use of language and sound. He pioneered experimental poetry, utilizing phonetic variations and concrete forms. Jandl's works, such as 'schtzngrmm' and 'Ottos Mops,' challenged traditional poetic structures. He was a professor at the University of Cologne and influenced a generation of German-speaking poets. Jandl received numerous awards, including the Georg Büchner Prize in 1984. His innovative style left a lasting impact on contemporary literature and performance art.

Jack Shea began his career in the early 1950s directing episodes for prime-time television series and producing independent films. His screenwriting credits span dramas and comedies, earning recognition from his peers. Over decades in entertainment, Shea collaborated with major studios and networks and mentored emerging talent. He was respected for his versatility behind the camera and his commitment to storytelling. Shea passed away in 2013, leaving behind a diverse body of work.

Julie Bovasso studied at the Actors Studio and emerged in New York's Off-Off-Broadway movement in the 1950s. She wrote and performed in original plays at venues like La MaMa and Caffe Cino. Her avant-garde performances blurred the lines between acting and playwriting. She appeared in films by directors such as John Cassavetes and supported emerging playwrights. Her work helped define the Off-Off-Broadway scene and influenced generations of theatre artists. Bovasso continued teaching and directing until her death in 1991, leaving a transformative impact on American theatre history.

Robert James Waller (1939-2017) was an American author and photographer whose compelling storytelling resonated worldwide. His 1992 novel 'The Bridges of Madison County' became a global bestseller, selling over 17 million copies and inspiring a film adaptation starring Meryl Streep and Clint Eastwood. Waller's writing often explored themes of love, chance encounters, and the beauty of everyday life. An avid photographer, he published collections of evocative images that complemented the emotional depth of his literary work. He also composed music and designed album covers, showcasing his diverse artistic talents. Waller's multidisciplinary approach to art and narrative left a lasting mark on contemporary fiction.