February 16

Born in 1632 in Pernes-les-Fontaines, Fléchier was educated by Jesuits and showed early literary talent. He gained fame for his funeral orations, which combined classical elegance with emotional depth. In 1687 he was appointed Bishop of Nîmes, where he reformed clergy education and pastoral care. His published collections, including "Eloges" and "Précieuses", influenced French prose style. He was celebrated at court for his eloquence and became a member of the Académie française in 1672. Fléchier's writings blended devout Catholic faith with humanist learning, shaping 17th-century French literature. He died in 1710, leaving a legacy as one of France's greatest preachers and writers.

Born in 1843 in County Cork, Ireland, Bracken emigrated to New Zealand in 1865 at age 22. He worked as a journalist in Dunedin and founded the influential newspaper the Saturday Press. Bracken authored the lyrics to "God Defend New Zealand," which became one of the country's national anthems. He published several poetry collections reflecting colonial life and his Irish heritage. Bracken also served briefly as Member of Parliament for Dunedin West, engaging in local politics. His writing helped shape New Zealand's cultural identity in the late 19th century. He died in 1898, remembered for his patriotic verse and contributions to journalism.

Born in 1835 in Valdicastello, Tuscany, Carducci studied classical literature at the University of Pisa. He became a leading professor of Italian literature and mentored a generation of writers. His collection "Odi Barbare" introduced new metrical forms inspired by classical poetry. A fervent advocate for Italian unification, he infused his work with patriotic and secular themes. In 1906 he was awarded the Nobel Prize in Literature, the first Italian to receive the honor. Carducci's poetry combined rigorous classical style with modern sensibility and national pride. He died in 1907 in Bologna, hailed as Italy's national poet and a pillar of modern Italian letters.

Starting his career as a journalist and art critic, Mirbeau became a leading voice in fin-de-siècle France. His novel 'The Torture Garden' stirred debate with its daring exploration of power and sadism. He wrote incisive social critiques and championed the Dreyfus Affair, siding with Émile Zola against injustice. His plays, including 'Les affaires sont les affaires', showcased his sharp wit and satirical edge. Mirbeau's influence extended to painting and theatre criticism until his death in 1917.

Born in 1894, Ye Shengtao emerged as a leading literary figure during the May Fourth Movement. He published influential short stories and essays that ushered in new narrative styles. Serving as Minister of Education, he promoted vernacular language and accessible schooling across China. Ye founded journals and schools that nurtured young writers and scholars. His works combined realism with social commentary, leaving a lasting impact until his death in 1988.

Born in 1940, Carter emerged as a pioneering voice in late 20th-century literature. Her works, including The Bloody Chamber, reimagined classic fairy tales through a feminist lens. She blended myth, history, and fantasy to explore gender, power, and desire. Admired for her lush prose and imaginative plots, she influenced generations of writers. Carter's legacy endures in contemporary discussions on feminism and narrative form.

Justinas Marcinkevičius was born in 1930 in the village of Važininkai and studied literature at Vilnius University. He emerged as a leading voice in Soviet-era Lithuania, using poetry and drama to explore national themes and cultural heritage. His works, including the epic poem 'Mindaugas' and the play 'The Blood of the Earth,' became symbols of Lithuanian resilience. Marcinkevičius was a co-founder of the Sąjūdis movement for independence in 1988. He received numerous awards for his contributions to literature and national consciousness before his death in 2011.

Michael Shea (1946–2014) was an American writer celebrated for his imaginative contributions to fantasy, science fiction, and horror. His novella "The Autopsy" won the World Fantasy Award and showcased his talent for blending macabre themes with vivid storytelling. Shea expanded established universes with novels like "A Quest for Simbilis" in Fritz Leiber's Fafhrd and the Gray Mouser series, demonstrating his respect for original creators and his own creativity. He also penned novelizations of cult films, including John Carpenter's "The Thing," bringing new depth to familiar stories. Admired by peers and fans alike, Shea's works continue to influence genre authors with their rich prose and darkly inventive plots.