September 19

Jean-Antoine de Baïf, born in 1532, was a French poet and humanist who co-founded the literary group known as the Pléiade. He studied under the patronage of Catherine de' Medici and introduced the practice of vers mesurés à l'antique, adapting classical quantitative meter to French. His works, including odes and sonnets, celebrated classical themes and French national identity. As a teacher at the Collège de France, he influenced a generation of poets and musicians. Baïf also composed music and organized poetic and musical academies in Paris. His pioneering blend of classical form and vernacular spirit left a lasting mark on French literature and cultural life.

Masaoka Shiki was a seminal figure in Japanese literature, credited with modernizing the traditional forms of haiku and tanka during the late 19th century. Born Noboru Masaoka, he adopted the pen name Shiki and promoted a more realistic and descriptive style of poetry called shasei (meaning sketching from life). Despite battling tuberculosis, Shiki wrote prolifically as a poet, essayist, and critic, challenging established literary norms. He founded several haiku magazines and mentored future generations of poets. His theoretical writings laid the foundation for the development of modern Japanese poetry. Shiki’s influence endures in the continued popularity and evolution of haiku worldwide.

George Shiels (1886–1949) was born in County Antrim, Ireland, and later moved to Canada where he wrote and produced over twenty plays. His works blended Irish folklore and comedy to depict rural communities, gaining popularity at Dublin's Abbey Theatre. Shiels' notable plays include The Rugged Path and The New Gossoon. He earned acclaim for his ability to evoke both laughter and emotion through authentic characters. His contributions helped shape 20th-century Irish drama. Shiels passed away in 1949, leaving a legacy of stage classics.

Born in Cuba in 1923 and raised in Italy, Calvino began his literary career after World War II. He was a member of the Italian Resistance and drew on his experiences in his early works. Calvino wrote celebrated novels like "Invisible Cities" and "If on a winter's night a traveler" that blend fantasy and philosophical inquiry. His playful style and metafictional techniques influenced postmodern literature worldwide. He also worked as a journalist and editor, shaping literary discourse until his death on September 19, 1985.

Milton Meltzer (1915–2009) was an American historian and author celebrated for his engaging books on social justice and minority histories. Over a career spanning six decades, he wrote more than 60 works covering Jewish history, slavery, and civil rights. Meltzer's narrative style made complex historical topics accessible to young readers and educators. He received numerous awards for his contributions to children's and adult literature. Meltzer's scholarly yet approachable approach inspired generations to explore underrepresented historical narratives.

Robert Barnard (1936–2013) was an English author and critic celebrated for his sharp and humorous mystery novels. He wrote over 30 books featuring clever plots and satirical takes on the detective genre. Barnard also contributed literary criticism and reviews to major newspapers and journals. His nuanced characters and intricate storytelling earned him acclaim in crime fiction circles. Barnard's work continues to inspire readers and writers of detective literature.

Jackie Collins authored more than 30 novels, many of which became international bestsellers, including 'Hollywood Wives' and 'Chances'. Her work, known for its candid portrayal of sex, power, and scandal, captivated readers worldwide. She sold over 500 million copies in 40 countries, making her one of the most commercially successful authors of her generation. Born into a theatrical family and sister to actress Joan Collins, she drew inspiration from real-life celebrity culture. Several of her novels were adapted into television miniseries, cementing her influence on popular culture.