August 28

Francisco de Sá de Miranda (1481–1558) is celebrated as a pioneer of the Portuguese Renaissance. He studied in Europe and brought back lyrical forms like the sonnet and ottava rima to his homeland. His poetry emphasized clarity, emotion, and classical themes, breaking from medieval Portuguese verse. He maintained salons that nurtured budding writers and influenced generations of poets. He also translated works by Petrarch and Virgil, enriching Portuguese literature with classical inspiration. He died in 1558, remembered as the father of modern Portuguese poetry.

Born in Frankfurt, Goethe emerged as a leading voice of the Sturm und Drang movement in his youth. His early novel The Sorrows of Young Werther sparked a continental literary sensation. At the Weimar court, he served as a diplomat and guided cultural and scientific projects. He conducted pioneering research in plant morphology and color theory, blending art and science. Goethe’s masterpiece Faust remains a cornerstone of world literature, exploring human striving and redemption.

Born in Limerick, Le Fanu became one of the 19th century’s leading supernatural storytellers. His collection In a Glass Darkly and novels like Uncle Silas cemented his reputation for eerie atmosphere. Carmilla, published in 1872, predated Bram Stoker’s Dracula and influenced vampire lore. As editor of The Irish Journal, he championed Irish literature and culture. Le Fanu’s blend of realism and horror continues to captivate readers and inspire modern Gothic writers.

Born in 1885 in Queensland, Palmer studied law before pursuing a literary career. He wrote novels like The Man Hamilton (1914) and The Coward (1923), exploring Australian identity. Palmer’s plays and essays critiqued cultural and social issues in burgeoning Australian society. He co-founded the Australian Literary Society and served as its president, promoting local writers. Alongside his wife Nettie, he championed Australian arts and cultural nationalism. His contributions influenced generations of writers until his death in 1959.

August Kippasto was born in 1887 in Estonia and made his mark in local wrestling circles before emigrating to Australia. There he continued his athletic pursuits, competing at the amateur level while nurturing a deep interest in literature. His poetry collections, published later in life, explore themes of identity, resilience, and the immigrant experience. Kippasto’s dual legacy as both a wrestler and a poet highlights the breadth of his talents. He remained an active voice in both communities until his death in 1973.

Evadne Price was born in 1888 in Australia and began her career on stage and in early film productions. She later developed a passion for astrology, contributing columns and gaining recognition as a commentator on celestial events. Simultaneously, Price authored numerous novels and non-fiction works, often blending themes of romance and mysticism. Her versatility allowed her to reach diverse audiences across theater, literature, and astrology. She continued to write and lecture until her passing in 1985.

Firaq Gorakhpuri was born in 1896 in Gorakhpur, India, and became one of the foremost Urdu poets of the 20th century. His literary work bridged classical traditions and modernist elements, bringing fresh perspectives to Urdu verse. Gorakhpuri also contributed critical essays and scholarly writings, shaping academic discourse on South Asian literature. He served as a professor and mentored emerging writers, fostering a vibrant literary community. Honored with prestigious awards for his contributions, he remained active until his death in 1982.

Andrei Platonov was born in 1899 in Voronezh, Russia, and initially trained as an engineer before turning to literature. His novels and short stories, including "Chevengur" and "The Foundation Pit", offered profound critiques of collectivization and revolutionary ideals. Platonov’s prose is noted for its lyrical style and existential themes, blending realism with philosophical inquiry. Despite facing censorship and limited publication during his lifetime, his work gained recognition after his death in 1951. Today, he is revered as a pioneering voice in Russian literature.

Sir John Betjeman served as Poet Laureate of the United Kingdom from 1972 until his death in 1984. His poetry is known for its accessible style, wit, and profound appreciation of English landscapes and architecture. Betjeman co-founded the Victorian Society, campaigning to preserve historic buildings and heritage sites. He also worked as a broadcaster and writer, bringing poetry and cultural commentary to a wide audience. His notable works include collections such as "Homes & Places" and the poem "Slough." Betjeman's legacy endures through his contributions to literature and heritage conservation.

Robertson Davies was a versatile Canadian writer whose work spans novels, plays, and essays. His acclaimed Deptford Trilogy, beginning with "Fifth Business," explores themes of myth, psychology, and small-town life. Davies also wrote plays for stage and radio, and worked as editor of the Peterborough Examiner early in his career. He served as Principal of Massey College at the University of Toronto, fostering a community of scholars and artists. Knighted as Companion of the Order of Canada, his wit and erudition made him one of Canada's most celebrated literary figures.

Tasha Tudor’s enchanting illustrations captured the charm of 19th-century rural New England. She wrote and illustrated over 100 books, including classics like 'Mother Goose' and 'Belling the Tiger.' Tudor lived much of her life in a self-built Vermont farmhouse, farming by horse-drawn cart. Her meticulous attention to detail and warm color palettes created a timeless style beloved by generations. She received numerous awards, including two Caldecott Honors for her illustration work. Tudor’s legacy endures through the Tasha Tudor House & Garden, preserved as a museum in Vermont.

Jack Vance wrote over 60 novels and 100 short stories, renowned for his imaginative world-building. His Dying Earth series introduced a unique blend of wit, adventure, and baroque language. Vance’s works have influenced role-playing games and authors in the fantasy genre. He won the inaugural World Fantasy Award for Life Achievement in 1984. Other celebrated novels include 'The Demon Princes' cycle and 'Lyonesse' trilogy. Known for his vivid descriptions and complex characters, Vance’s legacy endures in speculative fiction circles.