September 09

Born into a minor noble family in 1610, Charles de Saint-Évremond began his career as a soldier in the French army. After a duel forced him into exile in England, he became a prominent literary figure at the English court. He wrote numerous essays and satires praised for their elegance, freedom of thought, and critical insight. His works influenced both French and English literature with their conversational style and sharp observations. He maintained correspondences with leading intellectuals of his day until his death in 1703.

Stéphane Mallarmé was born in 1842 in Paris. He is considered a leading figure of the Symbolist movement. Mallarmé's poetry emphasized musicality and suggestion over direct statement. His major works include L'Après-midi d'un faune and Un coup de dés jamais n'abolira le hasard. Mallarmé influenced a generation of poets and artists with his innovative style. He was also a respected literary critic and hosted influential salons that shaped French cultural life. He died in 1898, leaving a lasting legacy on modern poetry.

Max Ehrmann was an American poet whose reflective and philosophical verses captured the zeitgeist of the early 20th century. Trained as a lawyer, he practiced law in Terre Haute, Indiana while writing poetry and inspirational essays. His best-known poem 'Desiderata', penned in 1927, gained widespread popularity decades after its publication for its uplifting guidance. Ehrmann published several collections of poetry and prose exploring themes of morality, nature, and human dignity. His work continues to be quoted in speeches, books, and ceremonies around the world. Ehrmann's blending of poetic grace with ethical insight has cemented his reputation as a timeless moral voice.

Hugh MacDiarmid was the pen name of Christopher Grieve, a Scottish poet and intellectual born in 1892. He championed the revival of the Scots language and co-founded the Scottish National Party. His acclaimed poem 'A Drunk Man Looks at the Thistle' blended dialect and modernist techniques to redefine Scottish literature. MacDiarmid's writings spanned poetry, essays, and political commentary, reflecting his deep engagement with culture and society. Through his work, he inspired a generation of writers and helped spark a broader movement for Scottish cultural identity. He continued to write and lecture until his death in 1978, leaving a lasting impact on literature.

John Howard Griffin was an American journalist and civil rights advocate born in 1920. In 1959, he undertook an undercover journey, altering his appearance to pass as a black man in the Deep South. His book 'Black Like Me' documented the harsh realities of segregation and brought national attention to civil rights issues. Griffin's courageous reporting challenged societal prejudices and influenced the burgeoning civil rights movement. He continued writing and speaking on social justice until his death in 1980. His work remains a powerful testament to empathy and journalistic integrity.

Yılmaz Güney was a Kurdish-Turkish filmmaker, actor, and novelist born in 1937. He gained international recognition after winning the Palme d'Or at the 1982 Cannes Film Festival for 'Yol', which he co-wrote and produced. Güney's films often explored themes of oppression, identity, and human suffering in Turkish society. Convicted on political charges, he spent years in prison, using his time to write novels and film scripts. After his release, he lived in exile in France, where he continued his creative and activist work. Güney's courage and artistry left an indelible mark on world cinema before his death in 1984.

General Sir John Hackett was an Australian-born British Army officer who served with distinction during World War II. He participated in key operations including the D-Day landings and commanded airborne forces in Europe. Hackett rose to senior leadership positions and was known for his strategic acumen and calm under pressure. After his military career, he authored influential works on warfare, including The Third World War, blending firsthand experience with geopolitical analysis. His writings offered insightful commentary on modern conflict and defense policy. Hackett was knighted in recognition of his service and contributions. He remained active as a speaker and military historian until his death. His dual legacy as a commander and author continues to inform military scholarship.

Born in 1934 in Parma, Italy, he initially gained fame as a novelist. Won several literary awards before transitioning into film. Directed and wrote the screenplay for "La califfa" (1970), starring Ugo Tognazzi and Romy Schneider. His films often explored social and political themes in post-war Italy. Collaborated with renowned directors and influenced a generation of Italian filmmakers. Received a lifetime achievement award in 2005 for his contributions to cinema. Died on September 9, 2013, leaving a legacy in both literature and film.

Born on May 13, 1936, in New York City. Covered U.S. politics and Latin American affairs for major publications. Directed over 40 documentaries, including "Agenda: Grinding America Down." Authored multiple books on American democracy and foreign policy. Received awards for investigative journalism and documentary filmmaking. Taught at the City University of New York Graduate School of Journalism. Passed away on September 9, 2013, at age 77.

Born on October 1, 1918, in Reus, Catalonia. Published seminal poetry collections such as "Vida diària." Translated works by Sylvia Plath and Dylan Thomas into Catalan. Active leader in modern poetry movements in Spain. Awarded the Creu de Sant Jordi in 1999 for cultural contributions. Continued writing and translating into her 90s. Died on September 9, 2014.

Born on October 22, 1954, in Keresley, England. Wrote acclaimed novels such as "Dreamside" and "The Facts of Life." Blended psychological realism with supernatural elements in his work. Won the World Fantasy Award for "The Tooth Fairy" in 1996. Taught creative writing at the University of Nottingham. Served as chair of the Arthur C. Clarke Award judging panel. Died on September 9, 2014, at age 59.

Born on January 3, 1922, in Dresden, Germany. Published her first poetry collection, "Von allen Schattierungen," in 1948. Wrote plays and cabaret songs reflecting post-war German society. Collaborated with composers like Bernd Alois Zimmermann. Her lyrical style was celebrated for wit, irony, and linguistic innovation. Awarded the Order of Merit of the Federal Republic of Germany in 1985. Continued writing into her 90s, influencing generations of German writers. Died on September 9, 2015.