September 18

Samuel Johnson (1709–1784) was a towering literary figure of 18th-century England. His Dictionary of the English Language set new standards in lexicography and influenced English usage. A prolific essayist, poet, and critic, Johnson contributed to the periodical The Rambler. His conversational wit and moral essays endeared him to contemporaries and later readers. A founding member of the Literary Club, he associated with figures like Boswell and Reynolds. Johnson's life and works were chronicled by his friend James Boswell, ensuring his legacy.

Tomás de Iriarte y Oropesa (1750–1791) was a leading figure of the Spanish Enlightenment. His poetic fables combined wit and moral lessons, earning him royal patronage. He authored La Música and other critical essays on literature and theatre. As a playwright, he brought classical themes to contemporary Spanish audiences. A professor at the Royal Academy of Fine Arts, he influenced Spanish literary theory. His works are remembered for their clarity, humor, and moral insight.

Born in Ludwigsburg, Justinus Kerner initially studied theology before turning to poetry and medicine. He became a leading figure of the Swabian school of poets with works that celebrated nature and folklore. Kerner authored Die Seherin von Prevorst, a groundbreaking study of paranormal phenomena and mysticism. As a practicing physician, he researched botulism and documented early cases of food poisoning. His ghost stories and supernatural tales influenced later writers of horror and fantasy. Kerner also supported fellow poets by editing works of Friedrich Hölderlin. He continued to write and practice medicine until his death in 1862.

Gerald Hugh Tyrwhitt-Wilson, 14th Baron Berners, was an English nobleman whose creative flair spanned music, visual art, and literature. Born in 1883, he composed avant-garde chamber works and small-scale operettas, often featuring playful motifs and modernist influences. As a painter, he produced vivid watercolors reflecting his love of travel and luxury. Berners also wrote satirical short stories and memoirs that captured his flamboyant lifestyle and social commentary. A famed eccentric, he kept peacocks on his Norfolk estate and was noted for his extravagant fashion. He died in 1950, leaving a unique artistic legacy that continues to fascinate.

Born Archibald Belaney in 1888 in England, Grey Owl immigrated to Canada and adopted a First Nations persona to draw attention to environmental issues. He became a pioneering conservationist, documenting fur trade practices and the decline of beaver and other wildlife. As an author, Grey Owl published books such as "The Men of the Last Frontier" and "Pilgrims of the Wild", bringing wilderness stories to a broad audience. His lectures and writings helped launch the modern Canadian conservation movement and influenced national park policies. Grey Owl's complex legacy raises questions about cultural identity and authenticity, as his assumed heritage was revealed after his death. Nevertheless, his passion for nature protection and wildlife ecology continues to inspire environmentalists. He died in 1938, leaving a legacy as one of Canada's first high-profile voices for conservation.

Rafael Pérez y Pérez (1891–1984) was a prolific Spanish novelist renowned for his sweeping historical romances. He wrote numerous popular works, including La mujer alta and Corazones sin fronteras, combining passionate narratives with vivid period detail. His storytelling blended drama, romance, and cultural settings of 19th-century Spain and Latin America. Pérez y Pérez's novels were translated into multiple languages, earning him an international readership. He received literary awards in Spain and across Latin America for his contributions to popular fiction. His works remain in print and have inspired film and television adaptations to this day. Rafael Pérez y Pérez is remembered as a master of romantic escapism and historical narrative.

William March (1893–1954) was an American author and decorated U.S. Marine who served in World War I. His debut novel, Company K, drew on his wartime experiences to deliver a powerful anti-war narrative. March's later works, including The Bad Seed, explored psychological depth and moral complexity in his characters. He employed modernist techniques and social themes to comment on human nature and society. His writing earned critical acclaim and multiple National Book Award nominations. March's influence on American literature can be seen in later war and psychological fiction. He is remembered as both a courageous soldier and an innovative novelist.

Walter Koch was one of the most prominent German astrologers of the 20th century. He authored several foundational texts that introduced innovative interpretations of horoscope charts. Koch founded the German Astrological Society and organized conferences that brought astrology into public discourse. His analytical approach combined traditional techniques with psychological insights. His books were translated into multiple languages and remain reference works for astrology enthusiasts. He continued to write and lecture until his passing in 1970.

Born Prabhu Lal Garg in 1906, Kaka Hathrasi became famous for his witty and satirical poetry in Hindi. He adopted his pen name from his birthplace, Hathras, and published numerous collections of humorous poems and short stories. His works like 'Thalipatra' and 'Hamari Yayavari' blended classical meters with contemporary humor. Hathrasi also wrote essays on Indian folklore and literature, earning recognition from literary academies. He inspired generations of Hindi humorists before his death in 1995.

Born in Nutley, New Jersey, Blake began his acting career as a child in the 'Our Gang' comedies. He gained international acclaim for his portrayal of Perry Smith in the 1967 film 'In Cold Blood.' Blake won an Emmy Award for Best Actor for his role as the title character in the television series 'Baretta.' Over his six-decade career, he appeared in numerous films and TV movies, demonstrating versatility and intensity. Despite personal controversies later in life, his performances remain influential in American film and television. He passed away in 2023, leaving behind a complex legacy as a talented and compelling performer.

Meredith Oakes began her career as a playwright in the late 1970s, gaining acclaim for her sharp dialogue and inventive storytelling. She has written numerous plays for stage and radio, exploring themes of identity, politics, and human relationships. As a translator, she is known for her English versions of opera libretti, working with composers such as Harrison Birtwistle and Benedict Mason. Oakes has also lectured and taught creative writing and theater studies at universities in the UK and Australia. Her contributions to contemporary drama have earned her recognition in both academic and theater circles. Through her educational work, she has mentored emerging writers and dramatists, shaping the next generation of theater artists.

Lynn Abbey began her career in computing, working as a programmer on early mainframe systems while cultivating a passion for storytelling. She transitioned into writing and publishing, becoming known for her fantasy novels and shared universe anthologies such as the Thieves’ World series. Abbey has authored numerous books and short stories, blending rich world-building with complex character development. In addition to her writing, she has lectured on game design and interactive storytelling at workshops and conferences. Abbey’s dual expertise in technology and literature has made her a respected voice in both communities. She continues to write, edit, and mentor emerging writers in the fantasy genre.