January 05

Marko Marulić (1450–1524) was a pioneering Croatian poet and Renaissance humanist whose works laid the foundation for Croatian literary tradition. Writing primarily in Latin, his epic poem Judita (1501) is celebrated as the first major literary work in Croatian vernacular. Marulić’s moral and religious writings influenced thinkers across Europe, earning him the title Christian Homer. He corresponded with leading intellectuals of his time and advocated for moral reform during a period of religious upheaval. His legacy endures in Croatia, where he is commemorated as a national cultural hero.

Charles Tompson published 'Wild Notes, from The Lyre of a Native Minstrel' in 1826, regarded as the first poetry collection by an Australian-born writer. He captured early colonial life and landscapes through his verse, pioneering a unique Australian literary voice. After his literary debut, he pursued a career in the New South Wales public service. Over several decades, he worked as a clerk and registrar, contributing to the administration of the young colony. His dual legacy as poet and civil servant reflects the cultural and bureaucratic foundations of 19th-century Australia.

Peter Christen Asbjørnsen was born in 1812 and, alongside Jørgen Moe, traveled rural Norway gathering oral tales and legends. Their collection, published as 'Norske Folke-Sagn', brought national folklore to a broad audience and aided the country’s cultural awakening. Asbjørnsen’s scholarly approach combined literary skill with ethnographic detail, preserving stories that risked being lost. He worked as a librarian and professor, promoting the study of Norwegian language and traditions. His efforts left an indelible mark on folklore studies and inspired future generations of writers and folklorists.

Born Andrei Platonov in 1899 near Voronezh, Russia, he initially worked as an engineer before turning to writing and journalism. His early experiences on Soviet construction projects informed his insight into social upheaval and human resilience. Platonov's major works, including 'Chevengur' and 'The Foundation Pit', explore the promises and tragedies of the Russian Revolution. Despite facing censorship and political pressure, he continued to write poetry, essays, and short stories marked by existential depth. His prose blends realism with allegory, capturing the moral complexities of Soviet society. Posthumously recognized, Platonov's contributions have influenced generations of Russian and world literature.

Wyatt Emory Cooper was born in 1927 and wrote screenplays for film and television during the 1950s and 1960s. He published short stories and essays, showcasing his talent for vivid character work and dialogue. In 1948, Cooper married socialite Gloria Vanderbilt, becoming stepfather to her children and fathering Anderson and Carter Cooper. His memoirs and personal letters offered insight into mid-20th-century cultural and social dynamics. Cooper balanced commercial writing with more personal literary projects, reflecting his versatility. Though less celebrated than his famed family, his influence persisted through his children’s achievements. He passed away on January 5, 1978, remembered both for his creative work and his connection to a prominent American family.

Billy Bletcher was born in 1894 and became one of Disney’s first regular voice actors, most famously voicing Pete the villain in Mickey Mouse shorts. His distinctive deep voice brought life to characters in “Thru the Mirror” and “The Three Little Pigs.” Bletcher also worked on vaudeville and Broadway before transitioning to animated film. He contributed to Warner Bros. and MGM cartoons, showcasing his versatility as a voice performer. In addition to voice roles, he appeared on camera in comedies and musical revues. His career spanned over five decades, influencing generations of voice actors. He died on January 5, 1979, leaving a rich legacy in animation history.

Born Giuseppe Lanza di Trabia, he was an Italian poet, philosopher, and committed disciple of Mahatma Gandhi. In 1948, he founded the Community of the Ark in southern France, a commune dedicated to nonviolent living and communal agriculture. Del Vasto published poems, essays, and treatises on spirituality and social justice, advocating for simple living and pacifism. His writings and lectures helped introduce Gandhian principles to Western audiences. He organized peace marches and hunger strikes in support of civil rights and anti-nuclear causes. Del Vasto's legacy endures in the international communities of the Ark that uphold his ideals of love, nonviolence, and communal harmony.

Margaret Laurence was a leading Canadian novelist whose novels and short stories captured the complexities of human relationships and the Canadian landscape. Born in Neepawa, Manitoba, she drew inspiration from her prairie upbringing, infusing her work with a strong sense of place. Her best-known novel, 'The Stone Angel', is considered a classic of Canadian literature, exploring themes of aging and pride. Laurence also wrote 'A Jest of God' and 'The Diviners', both of which examine the lives of strong women seeking identity and purpose. Beyond fiction, she taught creative writing at universities and mentored emerging Canadian writers. Laurence's lyrical prose and deep psychological insight cemented her reputation as one of Canada's most important literary figures.

Vasko Popa was a Serbian poet whose experimental and symbolic verse has been celebrated internationally. Born in 1922, he published his first collection 'Kora' in 1953, marking the emergence of a fresh poetic voice in Yugoslavia. Popa's work often fused surreal imagery with elements of Slavic folklore, creating a unique modernist style. He co-founded the avant-garde literary magazine 'Letopis Matice Srpske' and translated major European poets into Serbian. His poetry collections, including 'Kora' and 'Collected Poems', have been widely translated, earning him numerous awards. Popa also served as a professor and influenced generations of Balkan writers. His innovative approach to language and form continues to inspire poets around the world.

Frederica Sagor Maas was an American author, playwright, and pioneering Hollywood screenwriter. Born in 1900, she worked during the silent film era and later wrote scripts for major studios. Her career spanned several decades as she navigated changing roles for women in film and theater. Maas authored books about her experiences, offering rare insights into early Hollywood’s creative process. She advocated for writers’ rights and became a celebrated figure among film historians. Living to 101, her memoirs preserved firsthand accounts of cinema’s formative years.