October 27

Born in 1561 as the sister of poet Sir Philip Sidney, Mary Sidney gained acclaim for her translations of classical texts, including the Psalms. After her husband's death in 1586, she managed the Wilton estate and transformed it into a prominent literary salon. She composed original poetry, plays, and masques, earning respect throughout Europe. Her patronage supported poets and scholars, fostering artistic and intellectual exchange. Known as a learned and influential figure, she corresponded with leading writers of her time. She continued her literary work until her death in 1621, leaving a lasting impact on English Renaissance literature.

Born in 1894 in Jiangsu province, Ye Shengtao became a leading figure in modern Chinese literature and education reform. He championed the use of vernacular language in writing, making literature more accessible to the public. As an educator, he served in various academic posts, influencing generations of students and shaping China’s curriculum. Ye also held governmental positions, including roles in the Ministry of Education, where he advocated for literacy and cultural development. Throughout his career, his essays, novels, and pedagogical works left an enduring mark on China’s intellectual landscape.

Born in 1904, Riho Lahi made her mark as a prominent journalist in Estonia, reporting on cultural and social issues during a formative period for the nation. She later turned to literature, writing essays, short stories, and children’s books that captured the spirit of Estonian life. Lahi’s work was celebrated for its clear prose, insightful observations, and ability to engage readers of all ages. Despite the upheavals of World War II and Soviet occupation, she remained a steadfast voice in Estonian letters, mentoring younger writers and preserving national literary traditions.

Dylan Thomas was a Welsh poet and writer known for the musicality of his language. Born in Swansea in 1914, he published his first poem at sixteen. His major works include the poetry collection Deaths and Entrances and the play Under Milk Wood. Thomas's dynamic public readings captivated audiences with their intensity and passion. Despite his brief life, his influence on modern poetry endures worldwide. He died in 1953, leaving a legacy of vivid imagery and emotional depth.

Born in 1921, Warren Allen Smith served in the U.S. Army before embarking on a career in journalism. He authored several books, including 'Who's Who in Hell', profiling atheists, skeptics, and secular thinkers. As a gay rights advocate and member of the American Humanist Association, he championed civil liberties and freedom of expression. Smith co-founded the publishing venture 'Vile Men's Press' and was a prominent voice against censorship. His work highlighted the contributions of marginalized thinkers and promoted a culture of critical inquiry until his death in 2017.

Born in 1922 in Safi, Morocco, Michel Galabru trained at the Conservatoire of Toulouse. He appeared in over 200 films, including hits like 'Les Aventures de Rabbi Jacob' (1973) and 'La Grande Vadrouille' (1966). Galabru received the César Award for Best Actor in 1976 for his role in 'Le Juge'. He co-founded the Théâtre de la Comédie de Toulouse and wrote several plays. Known for his versatility, he excelled in both comedy and drama, leaving a lasting mark on French cinema and theatre.

Takumi Shibano (1926–2010) was a pioneering figure in Japanese science fiction, known for his prolific writing and translation work. He founded the prominent fanzine Uchūjin ("The Universe") in 1957, which became a central hub for Japanese sci-fi fans. Shibano translated many acclaimed Western science fiction works into Japanese, helping to introduce authors like Isaac Asimov to a new audience. He also hosted conferences and fan gatherings, fostering a vibrant community around the genre. His legacy includes mentoring generations of Japanese science fiction writers and contributing to the genre's growth in Japan.

Gilles Vigneault (born 1928) is a highly influential figure in French-Canadian music and literature. He wrote the song "Mon pays," which became an anthem for Quebec nationalism and cultural pride. Vigneault's poetry collections, such as "Il faut que je m'en aille," showcase his lyrical style and deep connection to the landscape of his homeland. As a songwriter, he blends folk melodies with poetic storytelling, earning him numerous awards including the Governor General's Performing Arts Award. He has performed and published widely, promoting the French language and Quebec heritage around the world. Vigneault's work continues to inspire musicians, poets, and activists.

Nawal El Saadawi (1931–2021) was a groundbreaking Egyptian writer, doctor, and activist whose works challenged social norms and advocated for gender equality. Trained as a psychiatrist, she combined medical insight with literary talent to address issues such as female genital mutilation, reproductive rights, and political oppression. Her notable books include "Woman at Point Zero" and "The Hidden Face of Eve," which have been translated into many languages. El Saadawi faced imprisonment and exile for her outspoken criticism of authoritarian regimes and religious conservatism. She founded the Arab Women's Solidarity Association and inspired feminist movements across the Arab world. Her legacy endures through her fearless writings and activism.

Sylvia Plath was an American poet, novelist, and short story writer whose intensely personal style reshaped confessional poetry. Born in Boston in 1932, she published her first poems in The New Yorker while still a teenager. Her semi-autobiographical novel, The Bell Jar, offers a stark portrait of mental illness and remains a classic of American literature. Plath's poetry collections, including Ariel, reveal her lyrical skill and fearless exploration of identity, depression, and feminism. She won the Pulitzer Prize for Poetry in 1982, years after her death. Despite her tragic suicide in 1963, her work continues to influence generations of writers and readers alike. Plath's legacy endures through her powerful voice and enduring works that challenge and inspire.

Ryō Hanmura was a Japanese author who masterfully combined elements of folklore, history, and speculative fiction. Born in 1933 as Kimiyoshi Shimazaki, he adopted the pen name Ryō Hanmura to publish his groundbreaking short stories and novels. His works, such as 'Musubi no Yama Hiroku', earned him multiple Seiun Awards and a devoted readership. Hanmura's narrative style wove intricate plots that explored the supernatural and human nature. He played a pivotal role in expanding Japanese science fiction and fantasy genres during the late 20th century. His storytelling continues to influence contemporary Japanese writers and remains celebrated for its depth and creativity. Hanmura passed away in 2002, leaving behind a legacy of iconic speculative fiction.

Neil Sheehan was an American journalist acclaimed for obtaining and publishing the Pentagon Papers, the classified documents detailing U.S. involvement in Vietnam. Born in 1936 in Holyoke, Massachusetts, Sheehan served as a war correspondent during the Vietnam War, witnessing combat firsthand. His groundbreaking work at The New York Times in 1971 sparked national debate over government transparency and freedom of the press. Sheehan later wrote several books, including the Pulitzer Prize–winning 'A Bright Shining Lie', which examined the life of a U.S. Army officer in Vietnam. His rigorous investigative approach and dedication to truth-telling left a profound impact on American journalism. Over his career, Sheehan received numerous accolades for his contributions to reporting and literature. He passed away in 2021, remembered as a titan of investigative journalism.