September 05

Born in Amiens in 1741, Pierre Choderlos de Laclos pursued a military career in the French artillery, rising to the rank of general and serving in various garrisons. While stationed in Italy, he wrote letters that would become the basis for his seminal work 'Les Liaisons dangereuses', published in 1782. The novel's scandalous portrayal of seduction and social intrigue shocked aristocratic society and influenced European literature. Laclos continued to serve the French Revolutionary armies and held diplomatic posts before his untimely death in 1803. His blending of psychological insight and epistolary form remains a milestone in the history of the novel.

Born in Vienna in 1790, Ferdinand Raimund began his career on stage as an actor before writing plays that combined fantasy, humor and moral lessons. His collaborations with composer Conradin Kreutzer produced magical works like 'Der Alpenkönig und der Menschenfeind', beloved for their charming characters and supernatural elements. Raimund's performances were celebrated for their naturalism and wit, and he became a leading figure at the Leopoldstadt Theatre. His sudden death in 1836 at the height of his popularity prompted a public outpouring of grief. His legacy endures in Austrian theatre, where his plays are still performed.

Born in 1866 in Oviedo, Spain, Francisco Acebal embarked on a career in journalism, contributing essays and articles to leading newspapers and literary magazines. His works often explored the social and moral issues of his time, blending realism with nuanced character studies. As a novelist, Acebal published several acclaimed novels and short stories, earning recognition for his clear prose and insightful observations. He also wrote plays that were staged in Madrid, showcasing his versatility as a writer for both page and stage. Throughout his life, Acebal championed educational reforms and participated in cultural initiatives to promote Spanish literature. He died in 1932, leaving a body of work that offers a window into early 20th-century Spanish society.

Born in 1859 in Metz, France, Gustave Kahn became a leading figure in the Symbolist movement, advocating for 'poésie pure'—poetry focused on rhythm and suggestion over direct narrative. He co-founded literary journals and the Société des poètes français, providing platforms for emerging poets and critics. Kahn's critical writings examined the works of contemporary artists and helped define the Symbolist ethos in art and literature. His own poetry collections, such as 'Les Palais nomades', showcased his lyrical style and innovative use of form. Throughout his career, Kahn engaged in intellectual salons in Paris, influencing writers, painters, and composers of his time. He died in 1936, leaving a rich legacy in both poetry and art criticism.

Born in 1897 in Charleroi, Belgium, Marcel Thiry began writing poetry influenced by symbolism and surrealism after experiencing the traumas of World War I. His collections, including "Estuaires" (1921), explored themes of nature, memory, and national identity. Thiry was active in cultural movements that sought to promote French literature within Belgium, often speaking at literary salons and conferences. His work earned numerous accolades, and his poems were translated into multiple languages, broadening his impact across Europe. Beyond poetry, Thiry engaged in social activism, advocating for artists’ rights and educational reforms until his death in 1977.

Born in 1929 in Saratoga Springs, New York, Jane Roberts began exploring psychic phenomena in the early 1960s. In 1963, she started channeling an entity named Seth during a series of experimental sessions, transcribing teachings on consciousness, reality, and reincarnation. Her landmark book 'Seth Speaks' (1972) and subsequent volumes provided foundational texts for the New Age movement. Roberts lectured internationally and inspired generations of spiritual seekers to explore inner dimensions of the mind. She continued her work until her death in 1984, and her teachings live on through the Seth Foundation, which preserves her writings and recordings.

Sharad Joshi rose to fame with his sharp satirical essays and poems that explored everyday Indian society. Writing predominantly in Hindi, he crafted memorable characters and dialogues that resonated with readers and audiences alike. Joshi contributed to radio and television, scripting popular sketches and series that combined humor with social critique. His work in film included dialogue writing for critically acclaimed movies, earning him nationwide recognition. Known for his ability to blend laughter with insight, he challenged norms and provoked reflection on contemporary issues. Joshi’s legacy survives in the continued popularity of his stories, plays, and television scripts.

Fritz Leiber wrote groundbreaking works in fantasy, horror, and science fiction, including the celebrated 'Fafhrd and the Gray Mouser' series. His storytelling blended wit, drama, and psychological insight, influencing generations of writers. Leiber received multiple Hugo and Nebula Awards for his novels and short stories. He also explored poetry, showcasing versatility across literary forms. As a critic and scholar, he contributed essays on genre and craft that shaped literary discourse. Leiber’s innovative themes of urban horror and sword-and-sorcery continue to captivate readers around the world.

Leon Edel was born in 1907 in Toronto and became one of the foremost American critics and biographers. He earned acclaim for his six-volume biography of Henry James, which won the Pulitzer Prize in 1963 and the National Book Award. Edel's meticulous research and sensitive portrayal of James's life set new standards for literary biography. He authored several critical studies on modern literature and mentored generations of scholars during his teaching career at institutions such as Smith College and City College of New York. His works remain essential reading for students of American and British literature. Edel passed away on September 5, 1997, leaving a legacy of scholarly excellence and literary insight.

Allen Albert Funt (1914-1999) was a pioneering American television producer, director, and screenwriter. He created and hosted the groundbreaking series Candid Camera, popularizing hidden-camera pranks. Funt began his career in radio before transitioning to television in the late 1940s. His innovative approach combined humor with unscripted public reactions. Over decades, Candid Camera influenced reality TV formats and spawned international versions. Funt also wrote and directed feature films and produced special televised events.

Justin Pierre James Wilson (1914-2001) was an American chef, humorist, and best-selling cookbook author. Born in Gordo, Alabama, he popularized Cajun and Creole cuisine on television and in print. With his trademark Cajun accent and tall tales, he charmed audiences on cooking shows. Wilson wrote over a dozen cookbooks blending recipes with humorous anecdotes. He also recorded comedy albums featuring his storytelling and regional folklore. His legacy endures in the continued popularity of Cajun dishes in American kitchens.

Born in 1922, Geoffrey Goodman trained as a pilot before serving his country during World War II. After the war, he transitioned into journalism, writing for prominent newspapers and magazines. Goodman authored several books covering aviation, politics, and social change. His reporting combined firsthand experience with insightful analysis, earning him critical acclaim. As an author, he explored themes of conflict, innovation, and the human experience. Goodman's work bridged the worlds of aviation and literature, inspiring readers across generations.