September 24

Born in 1717 as the son of Britain’s first Prime Minister, Horace Walpole combined political life with literary innovation. He penned the Castle of Otranto in 1764, creating the Gothic novel genre that influenced generations of writers. A prolific letter-writer, he published extensive political and social chronicles that illuminate 18th century life. At his iconic Strawberry Hill House, he cultivated a unique Gothic aesthetic that prefigured the Romantic movement. An MP for 40 years, he balanced his public duties with his deep passion for art and antiquarian pursuits.

Born in 1812, Mary Ann Browne gained recognition as a poet and composer of sentimental songs in Victorian Britain. Her lyrical poetry often appeared alongside her musical scores, crafted for domestic parlour performance. Browne published collections of verse and music that were popular in middle-class salons. Her songs blended poetic sensitivity with memorable melodies, contributing to 19th century musical culture. She remains a fascinating figure in early Victorian literary and musical circles until her early death in 1845.

Born in 1817 in Navia, Spain, Campoamor studied law but devoted his life to literature and philosophy. He gained fame with his 'Doloras', short dramatic poems noted for their wit and emotional depth. His satirical verse critiqued social norms and explored philosophical themes of love and human nature. Campoamor's writings helped transition Spanish poetry towards realism. He authored philosophical essays reflecting on morality and aesthetic theory. Remembered as a key figure in 19th-century Spanish letters.

Born in Lausanne, Charles-Ferdinand Ramuz wrote exclusively in French and is celebrated for his lyrical prose and profound exploration of rural life in the Swiss Alps. His most acclaimed novel, Derborence, captures the dramatic interplay between humankind and nature. A pioneer of modern Swiss literature, his works influenced both French and Swiss writers of the 20th century. He also penned essays and plays, reflecting his versatile contributions to literature. Ramuz's storytelling remains a testament to his deep understanding of human resilience and the natural world.

Born in Ashtead, Surrey, A.P. Herbert studied at Cambridge and served in World War I. He gained fame with his comic novel The Water Gypsies and his satirical series Misleading Cases. Herbert used humor to campaign for law reform, highlighting absurdities in British legal practice. He served as the Independent Member of Parliament for Oxford University from 1935 to 1950. Throughout his life, Herbert published numerous plays, novels, and essays blending wit with social commentary.

Born in Lancaster, Pennsylvania, Bletcher began his career on stage before transitioning to film. He voiced memorable characters for Disney, including Pete in Mickey Mouse cartoons. Bletcher also wrote screenplays and performed in numerous comedy shorts in the silent and early sound era. His booming voice made him a sought-after radio and animation actor for decades. Bletcher's versatile talents left a lasting imprint on American entertainment history.

Born in Saint Paul, Minnesota, Fitzgerald became the voice of the Roaring Twenties with his vivid prose. He published his debut novel, This Side of Paradise, in 1920 to immediate success. His masterpiece, The Great Gatsby (1925), critiqued the American Dream through elegant storytelling. Fitzgerald struggled with financial difficulties and personal challenges, chronicling them in his later works. His lyrical writing and insights into wealth, class, and desire have cemented his place in literary history.

Born in 1912, Robert Lewis Taylor was an American author celebrated for his rich narratives and engaging characters. He won the Pulitzer Prize for Fiction in 1959 for his novel "The Travels of Jaimie McPheeters." His work often explored themes of adventure and American frontier life. Taylor wrote novels, short stories, and historical essays throughout a prolific career spanning five decades. His novels were praised for their historical accuracy and evocative detail, earning him a lasting place in 20th-century American literature.

Jan Carew was born in British Guiana and became a prominent voice in Caribbean literature and postcolonial studies. He authored novels such as Black Midas, plays like The Bearded Bride, and essays addressing race, history, and culture. Carew taught at universities in the United States and Europe, advocating for multicultural education and social justice. His prolific career spanned over six decades, influencing generations of writers and scholars with his commitment to storytelling and cultural understanding.

Born in 1930, Krupiński emerged as a significant voice in post-war Polish literature, exploring themes of memory, identity, and social justice. His poetry collections earned critical acclaim for their lyrical intensity and philosophical depth. Krupiński drew inspiration from his experiences in the mining communities of Upper Silesia, capturing the hardships and resilience of ordinary people. He also published essays and short stories, showcasing his versatility as a writer. Active in literary circles, he mentored younger poets and participated in cultural events throughout Poland. Krupiński's work continues to be studied for its contribution to 20th-century Polish letters following his death in 1998.

Born in 1931, Brian Glanville began his career as a correspondent for national newspapers. He gained prominence in the 1950s with his in-depth coverage of English and international football. Glanville has authored numerous books, including novels and historical analyses of major tournaments. His work is celebrated for its vivid storytelling, expert tactical insight, and engaging prose. He wrote for leading publications such as The Sunday Times and Sports Illustrated. Over a career spanning more than sixty years, he became a respected voice in football journalism. Glanville's books continue to be regarded as essential reading for fans and scholars of the sport. He remains active as a commentator and lecturer on the cultural impact of football.

John Keith Brunner (1934–1995) was a prolific English-Scottish science fiction writer whose work explored social, political, and environmental themes. He published over forty novels and numerous short stories, earning acclaim for his imaginative world-building and sharp commentary. His best-known works include the Hugo Award-winning novel Stand on Zanzibar and the dystopian tale The Sheep Look Up. Brunner also worked as a screenwriter, contributing to film and television adaptations of speculative fiction. His innovative storytelling has influenced generations of writers and remains celebrated within the science fiction community.