September 24

Angelo Poliziano, known as Poliziano, was born in 1454 in Montepulciano, Italy. He became one of the leading figures of the Platonic Academy under Lorenzo de' Medici in Florence. A master of classical languages, he produced acclaimed Latin commentaries and crafted original poetry in both Latin and Italian. His works, including the 'Stanzas for the Portrait of Lorenzo', exemplified the humanist revival of antiquity. Poliziano also taught Greek and Latin to future statesmen and scholars of Europe. He died in 1494, leaving an enduring impact on Renaissance literature and scholarship.

Born in Florence in 1642, Vincenzo da Filicaja gained fame for his stirring verses praising the Holy League's triumph at the Siege of Vienna in 1683. His sonnets captured the spirit of European unity against Ottoman expansion, earning him membership in the prestigious Accademia della Crusca. Filicaja served in various civic offices in Florence, championing literature and public affairs. His poetic style blended classical forms with Baroque drama, influencing contemporaries and successors. He continued writing until his death in 1707, leaving a legacy as one of Italy's eminent 17th-century poets.

Born near Simbirsk in 1749, Alexander Radishchev entered civil service before publishing his groundbreaking book Journey from St. Petersburg to Moscow in 1790. The work exposed the brutal realities of serfdom and autocracy, shocking Catherine the Great and leading to his exile in Siberia. Radishchev's blend of travel narrative and social critique laid early foundations for Russian reformist thought. After his return under Tsar Paul I, he continued to advocate for justice and human dignity. He died in 1802, remembered as a pioneer of Russian social criticism.

Born in 1817 in Yorkshire, Branwell Brontë showed early talent in watercolour painting and verse. He exhibited works in London galleries and wrote personal poems reflecting Romantic themes. Struggling with debt and addiction later in life, his artistic output declined. He formed a close creative partnership with his sisters but lived in their shadows. His work offers insight into the Brontë family's dynamics and the challenges faced by a 19th-century artist battling inner demons.

Born in 1869, Williamson began writing short stories for magazines before publishing her first novel in 1890. She authored dozens of novels and popular tales, often exploring themes of love, mystery, and the paranormal. Her works, such as The Lightning Conducteur and The Purple Parasol, enjoyed widespread readership on both sides of the Atlantic. Williamson's engaging narrative style and vivid characters earned her critical acclaim during her lifetime. She collaborated with her husband on several projects but also found success as a solo author. Her stories continue to be appreciated for their imaginative plots and period charm.

Born in 1887, Charles Reisner began his career as an actor in Mack Sennett's Keystone comedies before transitioning to directing. He helmed iconic silent films including Buster Keaton's Steamboat Bill, Jr., demonstrating a flair for physical comedy and timing. As a screenwriter, he contributed to story development and comedic sequences across over sixty films. Reisner adeptly navigated the shift to sound cinema, directing early talkies such as The Cossack and Hold Everything. His collaborations with leading stars and studios helped define Hollywood's Golden Age comedy. Reisner's influence can be seen in the work of subsequent filmmakers who built on his comedic innovations.

August Kippasto, born in 1887 in Estonia, emigrated to Australia where he excelled in amateur wrestling, winning multiple state championships. Beyond the mat, he nurtured a passion for literature, publishing collections of poetry that reflected his immigrant experience and personal reflections. His dual legacy as an athlete and writer connected physical discipline with creative expression. Kippasto's poems, often inspired by nature and resilience, earned recognition in local literary circles. He contributed articles on sports and culture to several Australian periodicals. His life story embodies the melding of athletic prowess with artistic sensitivity. He passed away in 1973, remembered for bridging sports and poetry.

James O. Bassett, born in 1912, began his journalism career with the Los Angeles Times, covering political affairs and national defense. Drawing on his reporting experience, he authored Seven Days in May, a bestselling 1962 novel depicting an attempted military coup in the United States. The book's success led to a film adaptation directed by John Frankenheimer. Bassett's writing combined meticulous research with gripping narrative, earning acclaim in both literary and political circles. He also published articles and short stories in various magazines, exploring themes of power and ethics. Throughout his career, Bassett balanced journalistic integrity with creative storytelling. His work continues to influence political thrillers and broadcast commentary. Bassett died in 1978, remembered for his insightful writing and journalistic contributions.

Dr. Seuss was the pen name of Theodor Seuss Geisel, an American writer and illustrator celebrated for his groundbreaking children's books. Born in 1904, he published iconic works like "The Cat in the Hat" and "Green Eggs and Ham," revolutionizing early reading with playful language. His unique blend of rhythmic verse, inventive creatures, and vibrant illustrations made learning to read fun and accessible. Over his career, he authored more than 60 books translated into dozens of languages worldwide. Beyond entertainment, his stories often contained subtle moral lessons about tolerance, conservation, and self-confidence. Dr. Seuss passed away on 24 September 1991, leaving a timeless literary legacy beloved by both children and adults.

Jeff Moss was an American composer and television writer famed for his contributions to children’s programming. Born in 1942, he joined the original Sesame Street creative team, penning classics like “Rubber Duckie” and “I Love Trash.” His musical talents also shaped the theme and songs for Jim Henson’s Fraggle Rock series. Moss won three Emmy Awards for his innovative lyrics and compositions that blended humor with education. He later authored books and taught at universities, influencing countless aspiring songwriters. Jeff Moss died on 24 September 1998, remembered for enriching children’s media with his timeless songs.

Born in 1935 as Françoise Quoirez, she shot to fame at age 18 with her debut novel Bonjour Tristesse, a work exploring adolescent angst and complex family dynamics. Sagan penned over twenty works, including novels, plays and screenplays, often delving into themes of love, ennui and bourgeois society. Her elegant prose style and candid portrayal of desire made her an icon of French literature. Beyond writing, she led a glamorous and tumultuous personal life, engaging in high-profile romances and indulging her passion for gambling. Sagan's contributions reshaped 20th-century literature and earned her lasting acclaim in France and abroad.

Born in 1917, Crawford began his career writing for radio before transitioning to film and television. During the McCarthy era, he was blacklisted for alleged communist ties, temporarily halting his screenwriting career. He later returned to write for popular series such as Perry Mason, Route 66 and The Fugitive. Crawford also authored books on the craft of screenwriting, sharing his insights with aspiring writers. His resilience and talent made him a respected figure in the entertainment industry. He passed away in 2008, leaving behind a legacy of creativity and perseverance.