December 31

Carlo Gimach (1651–1730) was a Maltese architect and engineer who contributed to the Baroque architectural landscape of Italy and Malta with projects that blended classical and ornate elements. He designed chapels, palaces, and civil buildings, showcasing versatility and innovation in his structural works. Beyond architecture, Gimach composed Latin and Italian verses, exploring religious and philosophical themes in his poetry. His multidisciplinary talents exemplified the Baroque era's fusion of arts and sciences. He corresponded with prominent intellectuals of his time, reflecting his engagement in contemporary scholarly circles. Though some of his architectural works have been altered or lost, his literary contributions endure as a testament to his poetic skill.

Jean-François Marmontel (1723–1799) was a prominent French historian, novelist, and essayist associated with the Enlightenment philosophes. He contributed to the 'Encyclopédie' and authored historical works such as the 'Memoirs of the History of France from the Reign of Louis XIV to the End of the Reign of Louis XV.' His novels, including 'Bélisaire,' blended historical narrative with moral commentary and were admired for their clarity and style. Marmontel held positions in the Royal Library and the Académie française, reflecting his influence in literary and academic circles. He maintained correspondence with leading intellectuals of his era and engaged in debates on religion and morality. His writings provided insight into 18th-century French society and government and influenced later literary movements.

Aleksis Kivi (1834–1872) is regarded as the father of Finnish national literature, writing in Finnish during a time when Swedish dominated the literary world. His novel 'Seven Brothers,' published in 1870, remains a landmark work, blending realism, humor, and folk traditions to depict rural life. Kivi also penned plays, poems, and short stories that captured the Finnish spirit and identity. Despite critical struggles and financial hardships, his commitment to writing in Finnish laid the groundwork for future Finnish authors. Kivi’s work was initially met with mixed reviews but gained recognition posthumously, inspiring the Finnish national awakening. Today, his legacy is celebrated annually on Aleksis Kivi Day, and his contributions continue to shape Finnish literature.

Born in 1837 in Humulești, Creangă began his career as a schoolteacher before turning to literature. His Amintiri din copilărie ("Childhood Memories") remains a cornerstone of Romanian literature, celebrated for its humor and authentic depiction of peasant life. He also wrote fairy tales and short stories that drew on folklore and local dialects. As an educator, Creangă inspired students with his engaging narrative style. Though his life was cut short by illness in 1889, his works continue to influence Romanian culture and are taught in schools nationwide.

Born in 1864 in Bilbao, Miguel de Unamuno became one of the leading figures of Spain's Generation of '98. As a philosopher and rector of the University of Salamanca, he wrote influential works including The Tragic Sense of Life and San Manuel Bueno, mártir. His novels and essays examined faith, identity, and the human condition, blending existential inquiry with literary flair. A committed public intellectual, Unamuno's outspoken criticism of political regimes led to tensions with both monarchy and dictatorship. Exiled during the Spanish Civil War, he returned briefly to deliver his famous address at the University of Salamanca. His multifaceted legacy endures in philosophy, literature, and the cultural identity of modern Spain.

Born in 1869 in Istanbul, Rıza Tevfik Bölükbaşı studied philosophy and literature before embarking on a prolific writing career. He authored poetry and essays infused with mysticism and classical themes, earning acclaim among Ottoman intellectuals. Elected to the Ottoman parliament, he later served in the Turkish Grand National Assembly, contributing to the young republic's legal and cultural foundations. His philosophical works bridged Eastern and Western thought, reflecting a deep engagement with modernity and tradition. Despite periods of exile due to his political stances, Bölükbaşı remained a respected voice in Turkey's cultural life. He passed away in 1949, leaving a legacy as a multifaceted thinker and poet.

Born in 1879, Scott studied music at the Hoch Conservatory in Frankfurt, where he developed his unique compositional voice. He championed free rhythms and rich harmonies, contributing to the development of modernist music in England. Scott composed over 300 works, including piano pieces, chamber music, and orchestral works. Beyond music, he authored poetry, essays on art and philosophy, and several novels reflecting his interest in mysticism. His diverse body of work bridged artistic disciplines, leaving a lasting imprint on both musical and literary fields.

Born in 1931 in Istanbul, Burak studied literature and engaged with the avant-garde art scene of her time. Her work blended surreal imagery with existential themes, challenging traditional narrative forms. She published collections of short stories and plays that explored identity, memory, and gender roles. Though her career was brief, her innovative style influenced later generations of Turkish writers and dramatists. Burak’s legacy is celebrated through literary retrospectives and scholarly studies of her pioneering works.

Born in 1907, Nicolas Calas made his mark as a poet and critic in American and European literary circles. He was associated with the Surrealist movement, blending experimental imagery with social commentary. His critical essays appeared in influential art and literary journals, shaping discourse on modern art. Calas's poetry challenged traditional forms and explored themes of identity and alienation. His work influenced later generations of poets and critics, securing his place in 20th-century literature.

Donald E. Westlake was born in 1933 and became one of America’s most celebrated crime fiction writers. Under the pseudonym Richard Stark, he created the iconic Parker series, blending dark humor with thrilling plots. Westlake won multiple Edgar Awards for his sharp dialogue and inventive storytelling. He also penned screenplays for Hollywood films, including The Grifters, showcasing his versatility across media. His influence on the crime genre endures in both literature and film. Westlake passed away on December 31, 2008, leaving behind a rich body of work.

Jovette Marchessault was born in 1938 in Montreal and emerged as a leading voice in Quebec literature and theater. Her novels, essays, and plays often delved into themes of feminism, cultural identity, and social change. Marchessault’s bold storytelling and vivid characters challenged conventional narratives and inspired a generation of writers. She received numerous literary honors for her contributions to Canadian arts. Until her death on December 31, 2012, she remained an influential figure in both literary and theatrical circles, leaving behind a rich creative legacy.

Irina Korschunow (1925–2013) was a prolific German writer known for her versatility. She penned novels, children’s literature, and short stories that resonated with readers of all ages. Korschunow also wrote screenplays for popular German television series and films. Her works often explored personal relationships and societal changes in postwar Germany. She received several literary awards, including the Lower Saxony Prize for Journalism and Literature. Her insights into human nature continue to influence contemporary German literature.