December 24

Born in 1811, William Makepeace Thackeray emerged as one of the foremost satirical authors of Victorian England. His magnum opus, 'Vanity Fair', serialized between 1847 and 1848, skewered the pretensions of society through its complex anti-hero, Becky Sharp. Thackeray's writing is marked by sharp wit, moral insight, and a keen observation of human folly. He also penned works such as 'The Luck of Barry Lyndon' and 'Pendennis', further establishing his reputation for social commentary. In addition to his novels, he contributed essays and reviews to prominent periodicals of the time. Thackeray's influence extended beyond literature, shaping the development of the English novel and satire for generations.

Born in 1819, Jan Jakob Lodewijk ten Kate served as a pastor in the Dutch Reformed Church while cultivating his gift for poetry. His devotional collections, such as 'Stichtelijke Liederen,' gained widespread popularity for their spiritual depth and lyrical beauty. Ten Kate also translated German and Latin hymns, introducing works by authors like Goethe and Heine to Dutch congregations. His blending of classical form with heartfelt piety influenced religious literature in the Netherlands. Beyond his writing, he was active in church affairs and educational endeavors. He died in 1889, leaving a lasting imprint on Dutch hymnody and devotional poetry.

Born in 1895, Robert Hillyer studied at Harvard University, where he later taught English and creative writing. He authored several collections of poetry, earning acclaim for his classical style and rich imagery. Hillyer received the Pulitzer Prize for Poetry in 1934, highlighting his impact on American letters. As a professor, he influenced a generation of poets and writers through his teaching at major universities. His poems often explored themes of nature, morality, and the human experience. He continued to write and lecture until his death in 1961, leaving a legacy as a champion of formal verse in American literature.

Louis Aragon emerged as a key figure in the early Surrealist circle alongside André Breton. He produced groundbreaking poetry and novels that blended dreamlike imagery with social commentary. A committed Communist, he joined the French Communist Party and wrote prose celebrating workers and the Resistance during World War II. His notable works include the novel "Aurélien" and the poetry collection "Le Paysan de Paris". Married to writer Elsa Triolet, Aragon continued to publish acclaimed works until his death in 1982. He left a lasting impact on both avant-garde art and political literature in France.

Gardner Fox was a key figure in the Golden Age of comics, writing for DC and other publishers. He co-created enduring characters such as The Flash, Hawkman, and the Justice Society of America. Fox's prolific storytelling helped define the early superhero genre and expand the medium's popularity. Beyond comics, he authored numerous science fiction and fantasy novels, displaying his versatile imagination. His work laid the groundwork for modern superhero teams and inspired generations of writers and artists. Fox's legacy endures in the characters and stories that remain central to popular culture.

Jainendra Kumar emerged in the 1930s as a pioneering voice in modern Hindi literature. His novels and short stories explored human emotions and social transformations in India. He addressed themes of individual freedom, tradition, and the struggles of ordinary people. Kumar's contributions earned him the Sahitya Akademi Award and national recognition. His evocative writing style influenced a generation of Hindi writers and readers alike. He remained a prominent literary figure until his passing in 1988.

Thorbjørn Egner created enduring characters and tales for Norwegian children, blending storytelling with music. His works, including puppet plays and radio programs, captivated audiences across generations. He penned musicals and songs that became staples in schools and theaters throughout Norway. Egner's dedication to education and entertainment made him a household name in children's literature. His ability to combine simple narratives with memorable melodies inspired creativity in young minds. Even after his death, his stories continue to be performed and cherished in Norway and beyond.

Born in Salt Lake City in 1912, Sorensen drew on her cultural heritage to craft compelling stories. She won the Harper Prize in 1942 for her debut novel "A Little Lower Than the Angels". Her works often explored the lives and struggles of women in the American West. She taught creative writing at several universities, inspiring a generation of writers. Throughout her career, she published over a dozen novels and numerous short stories. She passed away on December 24, 1991, leaving a lasting legacy in American literature.

Born in Bowersville, Ohio, in 1898, Peale earned degrees from Ohio Wesleyan University and Boston University. He served as pastor of the Marble Collegiate Church in New York City for over five decades. His 1952 book "The Power of Positive Thinking" became a bestseller, influencing millions. Peale's blend of psychology and spirituality helped launch the modern self-help movement. He counseled presidents and world leaders, leaving a mark on both religious and secular audiences. Peale passed away on December 24, 1993, remembered as a transformative voice in American thought.

Kjell Aukrust (1920-2002) was a Norwegian author, poet, and artist known for creating the beloved Flåklypa universe. His satirical writing and charming illustrations captured rural Norwegian life and folklore. Aukrust's works, including the story that inspired The Pinchcliffe Grand Prix, became staples of Scandinavian culture. He received several literary awards and was honored as a knight of the Order of St. Olav. His blend of humor, art, and storytelling left a lasting mark on Norway's artistic heritage.

Harold Pinter was one of the most influential dramatists of the 20th century, renowned for his minimalist dialogue and use of pause, which came to be known as “Pinteresque.” Born in 1930 in London, he first achieved success with plays like “The Birthday Party,” “The Caretaker,” and “The Homecoming.” His work often explores themes of power, memory, and identity, blending menace with dark humor. Pinter also had a successful career as a screenwriter and director, adapting works for film and television. In 2005, he was awarded the Nobel Prize in Literature in recognition of his body of dramatic work. Beyond his artistic achievements, Pinter was an outspoken political activist, critiquing war and human rights abuses.