November 25

Isaac Watts was a pioneering English hymnwriter whose work revolutionized congregational singing. He composed over 600 hymns, including 'When I Survey the Wondrous Cross' and 'Joy to the World'. As a theologian, he studied at Oxford and published sermons and devotional texts. His collections blended scriptural themes with poetic expression, making worship more personal and reflective. Watts' hymns influenced church music across Britain and America. His writings continue to shape modern hymnals and religious music traditions.

Richard Glover was an English poet best remembered for his 1737 epic 'Leonidas', celebrating Spartan heroism. He served as a Member of Parliament for Weymouth and Melcombe Regis, blending literary activity with public service. Glover wrote essays, dramas, and political pamphlets that engaged with contemporary debates on liberty and governance. His poetry enjoyed popularity throughout the 18th century and influenced later writers. As a politician, he advocated for economic and parliamentary reforms. Glover's career reflects the vibrant interplay between letters and politics in Georgian England.

Johannes V. Jensen (1873-1950) was a pivotal figure in Scandinavian literature, blending realism and modernism across his works. His epic series 'The Long Journey' traced human evolution with rich narrative and imaginative scope. Awarded the 1944 Nobel Prize in Literature, Jensen was honored for his narrative mastery and profound exploration of nature and myth. He authored plays, short stories, and essays that delved into historical, philosophical, and personal themes. His literary innovations continue to inspire writers and readers around the globe.

Born in 1878, Upton Sinclair became a leading figure in early 20th-century American literature and muckraking journalism. His 1906 novel The Jungle exposed the harsh conditions of the Chicago meatpacking industry, leading to significant food safety reforms. Throughout his career, he penned over 100 books, addressing themes of social justice, politics, and human rights. Sinclair was a vocal critic of corporate power and ran for political office, including a campaign for governor of California in 1934. Awarded the Pulitzer Prize in 1943 for his novel Dragon's Teeth, he remained an influential voice in American letters. Sinclair died in 1968, leaving a legacy of activism through literature.

Born in 1925 as Kimitake Hiraoka, Yukio Mishima rose to fame with novels like Confessions of a Mask and The Temple of the Golden Pavilion. A prolific writer, he also worked as an actor and film director, showcasing his multifaceted talents in Japanese arts. Mishima founded the Tate no Kai, a private militia, reflecting his obsession with traditional samurai values and nationalism. His dramatic public life culminated in a ritual suicide after a failed coup attempt in 1970, shocking the world. Renowned for his elegant prose and complex exploration of beauty and violence, Mishima remains a polarizing cultural icon. His works continue to inspire debates on modernity, identity, and ideology in Japan and beyond.

Born in 1905, he studied literature at Cambridge and developed a passion for poetry and the arts. He founded the influential literary magazine New Verse in 1933, promoting voices like Auden and Eliot. His own poetry collections often explored classical themes and vivid natural imagery. As a critic for major newspapers, he reviewed literature and art with insight and erudition. He later edited Kelp, a nature-focused journal, highlighting the intersection of environment and verse. He died in 1985, leaving a legacy as a mentor to emerging writers and critical voice in 20th-century letters.

Luciano Bottaro was born in 1931 and became a pioneer of Italian comics, co-founding the magazine Il Giornalino and contributing extensively to Disney's Italian publications. His whimsical art style and humorous storytelling captivated readers across Europe. Bottaro created original characters like Pon Pon and reimagined classic figures with a unique flair. Over his career, he illustrated hundreds of stories and mentored a generation of cartoonists. He left an enduring mark on European comics before his death in 2006.

Alfred Balk, born in 1930, was a prominent journalist for The New York Times Magazine and Life, delving into topics of race, politics, and popular culture. He authored several books, including 'Whoops, There Goes Gravity' and 'Coal Black Matt,' examining American life and social issues. Balk's writing blended in-depth reporting with narrative flair, earning him critical acclaim. He interviewed cultural icons and policymakers, shedding light on underreported stories. He continued writing and teaching until his death in 2010, leaving a rich archive of influential work.

Jawayd Anwar emerged in the late 20th century as a voice in Pakistani poetry, writing predominantly in Urdu. His work often reflected social and cultural themes, exploring identity and human emotion. Anwar published several collections of poetry that resonated with readers across South Asia. He also contributed essays to literary magazines, engaging with contemporary debates. His lyrical style and thoughtful commentary earned him respect among literary circles in Pakistan.

Al Plastino was born in 1921 in Manhattan, New York City and began his comics career after serving in World War II. He drew Superman, Superboy, and Lois Lane for DC Comics from the late 1940s to the 1960s, co-creating characters such as Brainiac and the Legion of Super-Heroes villains. Plastino also contributed to newspaper comic strips like 'Tarzan' and taught comic book art for decades. His clear line work and bold compositions helped set the standard for superhero illustration. He received the Inkpot Award and remained active in comics fandom until his death in 2013.

Lennart Hellsing was a prolific Swedish writer and translator known for his imaginative children's books and poems. He published over 80 works, blending inventive language with humor and rhythm. Hellsing translated international classics into Swedish, introducing global literature to young readers. His playful verses and whimsical characters earned him numerous awards and national honors. He was nominated for the Nobel Prize in Literature and received the Litteris et Artibus medal. Hellsing's legacy lives on in Sweden's literary culture and continues to inspire new generations.