September 30

Rumi, born Jalal ad-Din Muhammad Balkhi in 1207, was a pioneering Persian Sufi mystic and poet. His magnum opus, the Masnavi, is regarded as a masterpiece of spiritual literature, exploring divine love and the human soul. He founded the Mevlevi Order, known as the Whirling Dervishes, who practice his teachings through music and dance. Rumi's writings transcend boundaries of religion and culture, offering timeless insights into unity and compassion. His poetry has been translated into numerous languages and remains widely celebrated today. Through his eloquent verses, Rumi invites readers on a journey of inner discovery and spiritual awakening.

Stanisław Konarski was born in 1700 in Poland and joined the Piarist order, dedicating his life to education and scholarship. He founded the Collegium Nobilium in Warsaw, introducing modern curricula that emphasized mathematics, philosophy, and contemporary languages. Konarski's educational reforms were inspired by Enlightenment ideals, aiming to strengthen the Polish-Lithuanian Commonwealth. As a writer, he produced political treatises advocating for legal and governmental improvements. He also authored poetry and dramas that enriched Polish literature. His efforts laid the groundwork for later educational and political reforms in Poland. Konarski died in 1773, remembered as a pioneering figure of the Polish Enlightenment.

Edgar Parin d'Aulaire was born in Munich in 1898 and later emigrated to the United States. Alongside his wife Ingri d'Aulaire, he produced dozens of beloved illustrated books that brought mythological tales to young readers. Their notable works include 'Odin and Thor' (1936) and 'Abraham Lincoln' (1939), which won the Newbery Medal. D'Aulaire's detailed pen and ink illustrations and engaging narrative style set a new standard for children's literature. He also worked as a muralist and designer earlier in his career. D'Aulaire's contributions continue to influence illustrators and storytellers in the genre.

Waldo Williams was born in 1904 in Wales and wrote primarily in Welsh. His poetry is known for its lyrical beauty and themes of peace, equality, and nature. Williams trained as a teacher and spent much of his career as a schoolmaster, influencing generations of students. He was also an active pacifist and social activist, refusing military service during World War II. His major works include 'Dail Pren' (1951) and 'Cerddi Ogwen' (1974). Today, Williams is regarded as one of the most important Welsh-language poets of the 20th century, and his work continues to inspire readers.

Michael Powell was born in 1905 in Bekesbourne, England, and became one of the most innovative British filmmakers of the 20th century. He collaborated with Emeric Pressburger on classics such as 'The Red Shoes' (1948) and 'A Matter of Life and Death' (1946). Powell's films are celebrated for their imaginative visuals, bold color use, and exploration of psychological themes. He began his career making travel documentaries before moving into feature films. Despite periods of critical neglect, his work was rediscovered and reevaluated in the 1970s, earning him international acclaim. Powell's influence can be seen in the work of many modern directors drawn to his blend of dreamlike storytelling and technical craftsmanship.

Bill Walsh (1913–1975) was an American screenwriter and producer best known for his collaborations with Walt Disney. Over his career, he penned and produced numerous beloved family films, including Mary Poppins, The Parent Trap, and The Absent-Minded Professor. His storytelling and production skills helped define the golden era of Disney live-action features. Walsh's contributions earned him Academy Award nominations and enduring recognition in Hollywood history.

Truman Capote was born in 1924 in New Orleans and emerged as a literary prodigy with his novella 'Breakfast at Tiffany's'. He later gained international fame for 'In Cold Blood', a nonfiction novel that defined the true crime genre. Capote's elegant prose and sharp social observations made him a central figure in 20th-century American literature. He was known for his flamboyant personality and frequent appearances in New York's cultural circles. Capote also wrote plays, essays, and short stories that received critical acclaim and remain widely studied. His work influenced generations of writers and continues to captivate readers decades after his death in 1984.

Born in New York City, Merwin published his first collection of poems in 1952. He became known for his spare, evocative free verse and themes of nature and loss. Merwin served as United States Poet Laureate from 2010 to 2011, bringing poetry to a wider audience. His translations of Spanish and French poets introduced international voices to English readers. He received Pulitzer Prizes for Poetry in 1971 and 2009, as well as numerous literary awards. His lifelong commitment to environmental activism was reflected in his later works.

Born in Sighet, Transylvania, Wiesel witnessed the horrors of Auschwitz and Buchenwald. His memoir 'Night' powerfully chronicled his experiences and became a seminal work on the Holocaust. Awarded the Nobel Peace Prize in 1986, he dedicated his life to speaking out against injustice. He served as a professor at Boston University and held advisory roles in global human rights organizations. Wiesel co-founded the United States Holocaust Memorial Museum in Washington, D.C. His writings and lectures emphasized the importance of memory and the fight against indifference.

Born in Connecticut, Fenner crafted heartfelt stories that resonated with young readers. Her debut works earned critical acclaim for their sensitive portrayal of childhood challenges. As both author and illustrator, she created richly detailed worlds in over a dozen books. Her novel 'Yolanda’s House' received a Newbery Honor for its vivid narrative and compelling characters. Fenner’s illustrations complemented her text with warmth and engaging imagery. Her contributions have continued to inspire new generations of children and educators.

Born in Lingayen, Philippines, Ramos-Shahani earned her doctorate in international relations from a U.S. university. She served as the first female Philippine ambassador to Australia, strengthening diplomatic ties. Elected to the Senate, she authored key legislation on education reform and women’s empowerment. She represented the Philippines at UNESCO and co-founded organizations for global women’s advocacy. As a writer, she published essays on Asian culture and international diplomacy. Her career left a lasting legacy in both Philippine politics and global human rights.

Born in Cologne, Germany, Sölle studied theology in Bonn and Chicago. She became a professor at the University of Frankfurt, where she challenged traditional Christian doctrines. Sölle advocated for social justice, pacifism, and feminist theology, linking faith with political activism. Her influential works like 'Politics of the Cross' reshaped modern theological discourse. She co-founded Christian Peace Conferences and spoke out against nuclear weapons. Sölle’s scholarship bridged academic theology and grassroots movements for justice.