October 29

Shin Saimdang was a prominent artist and poet of the Joseon Dynasty. She excelled in painting landscapes, flowers, and birds, demonstrating delicate brushwork and vibrant colors. As a calligrapher, her elegant scripts were admired in scholarly circles. Her poetry often reflected personal reflections and the beauty of nature. Saimdang educated her children, including the famous scholar Yi I, instilling in them strong moral and intellectual virtues. She remains an iconic figure in Korean culture, symbolizing maternal devotion and artistic achievement.

James Boswell studied law in Edinburgh and London before establishing a legal practice in Scotland. He traveled extensively in Europe, documenting his experiences in vivid journals. Boswell became the lifelong friend and biographer of literary giant Samuel Johnson. His Life of Samuel Johnson, published in 1791, set new standards for biographical writing with its rich detail. Boswell’s diaries and letters offer unparalleled insight into 18th-century life and society. His works remain essential reading for students of literature and history.

Louise Granberg was a Swedish playwright active in the 19th century. She authored numerous dramas that were staged in Stockholm's prominent theaters, helping shape Sweden's dramatic literature. Granberg's plays often explored social themes and human relationships, resonating with audiences of her time. She collaborated with leading actors and directors, fostering a vibrant artistic community. Despite the challenges faced by women in the arts during her era, she achieved recognition for her contributions to Scandinavian theater. Granberg's library of works remains a testament to her influence on Swedish drama.

Jean Giraudoux was born in 1882 and became one of France's leading literary figures in the interwar period. He began his career as a diplomat before gaining fame for novels and essays rich in fantasy and wit. Giraudoux's plays, such as 'The Madwoman of Chaillot' and 'Ondine', blend poetic dialogue with philosophical themes. His work influenced modern theater with its lyrical style and exploration of moral questions. Beyond drama, he wrote essays on culture and politics, reflecting his belief in the transformative power of art. He died in 1944, leaving a legacy as a master of 20th-century French literature.

Henry Green (1905–1973), pen name of Henry Vincent Yorke, was an influential English novelist. He pioneered a concise, modernist prose style in his exploration of British society. His breakthrough novel 'Living' (1929) is often cited as a masterpiece of 20th-century literature. Green's works delved into themes of class, industrialization, and social change. Other notable novels include 'Party Going' (1939) and 'Loving' (1945). Critics praised his keen observations and innovative narrative techniques. His influence endures among students of English modernist fiction.

Fredric Brown (1906–1972) was an American writer celebrated for his versatility in genre fiction. He authored over 60 novels and 250 short stories spanning science fiction, mystery, and suspense. Brown's story 'Arena' became the basis for a 'Star Trek' episode. His mystery novels, such as 'The Fabulous Clipjoint,' won critical acclaim. Distinguished by his economy of language and surprise endings. He experimented with satirical and noir tones, influencing later genre writers. Brown's work remains popular among fans of classic pulp fiction.

Born in 1918, Bernard Gordon wrote screenplays across genres including science fiction, drama, and war films. During the McCarthy era, he was blacklisted and continued to work under pseudonyms to support his family. After the blacklist lifted, he received credit for his early work and produced several notable films. Gordon was known for his sharp dialogue and compelling storytelling, as well as mentoring emerging writers in the industry. His resilience and creative talent left a lasting mark on American cinema.

Born in Vienna, he fled the Nazis and eventually settled in the United States. As a research chemist, he played a key role in the synthesis of norethindrone, the first oral contraceptive used clinically. He authored over 1,200 scientific publications and several popular science books, merging science and storytelling. Djerassi also wrote plays, poetry, and novels, exploring the societal impact of science. He received numerous honors, including the National Medal of Science in 1973. Later in life, he became a cultural figure, engaging in debates on bioethics and science policy. His dual legacy bridges groundbreaking research and creative expression.

Born in Hartford, Connecticut, he began his career at Vogue and Vanity Fair before turning to television journalism. Dunne covered major criminal trials for '60 Minutes' and created the series 'Dominick Dunne's Power, Privilege & Justice.' He wrote bestselling novels such as 'The Two Mrs. Grenvilles' inspired by real-life scandals. His distinctive voice combined insider knowledge of Hollywood with keen legal insight. Dunne received multiple Emmy Award nominations for his reported pieces. He often highlighted issues of justice and social class through his work. His memoir 'Another City, Not My Own' reflects on his personal experiences and celebrity encounters.

Born in Będzin, Poland, he immigrated to Mandatory Palestine in 1946 and served in the Palmach. Hefer wrote hundreds of folk songs that became anthems of the Israeli state and military. His lyrics combined poetic imagery with themes of love, war, and pioneering spirit. He collaborated with noted composers and influenced generations of Israeli musicians. Hefer received the Israel Prize in 1983 for his contributions to Hebrew song and poetry. His work remains deeply embedded in Israeli cultural identity and collective memory.

William Harrison wrote over a dozen novels spanning satire, comedy, and speculative fiction. His short story 'Roller Ball Murder' was adapted into the cult classic film 'Rollerball' (1975). Harrison also penned screenplays and worked in television, showcasing his versatile storytelling. His novel 'Burton & Speke' won critical acclaim for its imaginative reworking of historical figures. He influenced a generation of writers with his sharp prose and playful approach to genre.

David Remnick is an American journalist who became editor-in-chief of The New Yorker in 1998. He won the Pulitzer Prize in 1994 for his book 'Lenin's Tomb', a history of the Soviet Union's final years. Remnick's in-depth profiles and investigative reports have made him one of the nation's leading cultural commentators. He previously worked as a correspondent for The Washington Post, covering news in Moscow. Remnick has authored several acclaimed books, including biographies of Muhammad Ali and Barack Obama. His editorial leadership at The New Yorker continues to shape modern journalism.