November 04

Born in Paris in 1608 to a prominent legal family, he practiced law at the Parlement of Paris before renouncing his career. Drawn by the teachings of Jansenism, he joined the Port-Royal community and devoted himself to religious study and writing. He authored works on ethics and personal devotion that influenced French spiritual life in the 17th century. A close associate of Blaise Pascal and Antoine Arnauld, his guidance shaped the Jansenist circle. He died in 1658, leaving writings that continued to inspire religious reflection.

Born in Mannheim in 1721, he studied law before publishing his first poems and songs that emphasized clarity and emotion. He became associated with the literary circles of the Elector Palatine's court, contributing to the intellectual ferment of the Enlightenment. His verses often reflected a blend of classical form and personal feeling, prefiguring the Sturm und Drang movement. Götz's ballads and odes influenced contemporaries and later Romantic poets. He died in 1781, remembered for his elegant style and expressive depth.

Eugene Field was born in 1850 in St. Louis, Missouri, and became known as 'The Poet of Childhood.' He wrote popular children's poems such as 'Wynken, Blynken, and Nod' and 'The Duel.' Field worked as a journalist and editor for newspapers in Denver and Chicago, crafting engaging essays. He helped found the Chicago Public Library's poetry reading series, bringing verse to broader audiences. His writing blends humor, sentimentality, and a playful use of language that resonated with readers. Field died in 1895, leaving a legacy of charming and accessible American poetry.

Wilfred Owen was born in 1893 near Oswestry, England, and studied at Shrewsbury Technical School. He enlisted in the British Army in 1915 and served on the Western Front. Owen's poetry, including 'Dulce et Decorum Est' and 'Anthem for Doomed Youth,' portrayed the brutal reality of combat. He was awarded the Military Cross for his bravery in battle. Owen was killed in action in November 1918, just one week before the Armistice. His stark and emotive verse has made him one of the most significant war poets in the English language.

Stig Dagerman was a central voice in Swedish literature after World War II, exploring themes of alienation, morality, and human vulnerability. He gained fame with his debut novel 'Ormen' and his poignant collections of short stories and essays. As a journalist, Dagerman covered the aftermath of the war in Europe, bringing visceral observations to his readers. His work is characterized by lyrical language, emotional depth, and a keen philosophical inquiry into the human condition. Despite his literary success, he struggled with personal turmoil and tragically ended his life at the age of 31. Dagerman's legacy endures through his influential writings that continue to resonate in discussions of existential literature.

Robert Emmet Sherwood was a distinguished figure in American theater and cinema, earning the Pulitzer Prize for his play 'Idiot's Delight' in 1936 and 'Abe Lincoln in Illinois' in 1939. His scripts combined sharp wit, deep humanism, and social critique, reflecting the tumultuous era of the Great Depression and World War II. During World War II, Sherwood served as chief speechwriter for President Franklin D. Roosevelt, contributing to the administration's messaging. He later wrote the screenplay for the Academy Award-winning film 'The Best Years of Our Lives' in 1946. Sherwood's work continues to be celebrated for its powerful storytelling and enduring relevance. His legacy lives on in theaters and film archives worldwide.

Born in 1935, Tom Reamy emerged as a vibrant voice in 1960s and 1970s science fiction, balancing writing with his talent for illustration. He contributed memorable cover art to leading genre magazines, bringing futuristic visions to life with vivid detail. Reamy's fiction often explored the boundaries of imagination and human experience, earning critical acclaim. Although his career was cut short by his untimely death in 1977, his collected works continue to inspire readers and artists. He posthumously gained recognition for blending narrative depth with visual creativity, leaving a lasting mark on speculative fiction.

Born in 1905, Elsie MacGill became one of the first women in North America to earn an engineering degree, breaking gender barriers in the field. During World War II, she served as chief engineer at Victory Aircraft, overseeing production of the Hawker Hurricane fighter and earning her the nickname Queen of the Hurricanes. After the war, she lectured on engineering and women's rights, publishing works that advocated for social and technical progress. MacGill's dual legacy as a leading engineer and author showcased her commitment to innovation and equality in a male-dominated industry. Her groundbreaking contributions continue to inspire women in STEM fields worldwide.

Born in 1926, Ümit Yaşar Oğuzcan emerged as a leading figure in modern Turkish poetry, known for his emotive and accessible style. His verses often delved into themes of love, longing, and the human condition, resonating deeply with readers. Oğuzcan published numerous poetry collections and essays, contributing significantly to Turkish literary culture. His works have been translated into several languages, spreading his poetic voice beyond national borders. He continued to write and publish until his death in 1984, leaving behind a rich literary legacy admired for its sincerity and depth.

Born in 1924 in Trenton, New Jersey, Richard Hooker was the pen name of Dr. H. Richard Hornberger, a Korean War veteran and practicing surgeon. In 1968, he published "MASH: A Novel About Three Army Doctors," blending dark humor with war-time realism. The book’s success led to Robert Altman’s acclaimed 1970 film and the legendary television series "M*A*S*H," which ran from 1972 to 1983. Hooker’s vivid characters and satirical critique of military bureaucracy resonated with audiences amid the Vietnam War. He continued to write sequels and medical articles until his death in 1997, leaving a unique legacy at the intersection of medicine and literature.

Born in 1917 in Launceston, Cornwall, Charles Causley worked as a schoolteacher before serving in the Royal Navy during World War II. His first collection, "Farewell Aggie Weston," captured the experiences of sailors and civilians affected by war. Causley’s simple yet powerful language spoke to children and adults alike, with notable books such as "Figgie Hobbin" and "October Song". Awarded an OBE in 1977, he became a beloved figure in British literature for his storytelling and strong sense of place. He passed away in 2003, leaving behind a rich body of work that continues to enchant readers of all ages.

Born in 1980 in Mazar-i-Sharif, Nadia Anjuman studied Persian literature at Balkh University. Her first poetry collection, "Gul-e-dawra," celebrated resilience and hope amid conflict. As editor of the literary magazine "Panir-e Shab," she nurtured emerging Afghan writers. Anjuman’s lyrical style and frank exploration of gender and society challenged cultural norms. Her untimely death in 2005 under suspicious circumstances sparked international calls for justice. Anjuman’s work remains a powerful testament to artistic courage in adversity.