July 02

Michel de Nostredame, known as Nostradamus, was a French apothecary and author of prophetic verse. Born in 1503, he first published his Book of Prophecies in 1555. His collections of quatrains predicted events that many believe have come to pass. Nostradamus's writings have fascinated readers for centuries and spawned numerous interpretations and studies. He also published medical works and treatises on plague remedies. He died in 1566, leaving a legacy as one of history's most enduring seers.

Thomas Baker (1656–1746) was an English antiquarian, historian, and author. He devoted his life to collecting manuscripts, documents, and early printed books, amassing one of the largest private libraries of his time. Baker wrote detailed histories of Cambridge University and contributed to the preservation of medieval records. A passionate scholar, he corresponded with leading intellectuals and supported emerging antiquarian societies. His meticulous notes and catalogs became valuable resources for future historians. After his death, his collection was bequeathed to St. John's College, Cambridge, enriching its library for generations.

Ernest Hemingway was born in 1899 in Oak Park, Illinois. He served as an ambulance driver during World War I, inspiring themes in his writing. His terse prose style defined modern literature in works like "The Sun Also Rises" and "A Farewell to Arms." He received the Nobel Prize in Literature in 1954 for his mastery of the art of narrative. Hemingway struggled with personal challenges and died in 1961, leaving a profound literary legacy.

Born Jan Wiktor Lesman in 1900, he adopted the pen name Jan Brzechwa. He published his first poems in the 1920s and became a leading figure in Polish literature. His children's classics, such as "Akademia Pana Kleksa," are celebrated for their imagination and wit. He also translated French literature into Polish and wrote satirical works for adults. Brzechwa's playful language and creativity have endeared him to generations of readers. He died in 1966, leaving a rich legacy in children's literature.

Vladimir Nabokov (April 22, 1899 – July 2, 1977) was a Russian-born writer who achieved international renown for his novels, poetry, and critical essays. He emigrated after the Russian Revolution, living in Europe before settling in the United States, where he taught literature at Cornell University. Nabokov's most famous work, 'Lolita' (1955), sparked controversy and acclaim for its daring narrative and stylistic brilliance. His oeuvre spans multiple languages and genres, including 'Pale Fire' and 'Ada or Ardor', showcasing his mastery of narrative complexity. Nabokov's contributions to literary theory and translation further cemented his legacy as one of the 20th century's great writers.

Aris Alexandrou (August 28, 1922 – July 2, 1978) was a Greek novelist, short story writer, and poet associated with the post-war literary avant-garde. His novel 'Mission Box' (1975) gained acclaim for its experimental narrative and exploration of memory and identity. Alexandrou was also a committed political activist, translating Marxist texts and reflecting on the Greek Civil War in his work. His poetic style blended surreal imagery with philosophical depth, influencing later generations of Greek writers. Though his life was cut short, his innovative contributions to Greek literature continue to be celebrated.

Mario Puzo was born in 1920 in New York City to Italian-American parents and discovered a passion for storytelling early in life. His bestselling novel The Godfather was published in 1969 and spent 67 weeks atop The New York Times Best Seller list. Puzo co-wrote the screenplay for The Godfather film adaptation, earning an Academy Award for Best Adapted Screenplay in 1972. He also co-wrote the screenplay for the 1978 blockbuster Superman, showcasing his versatility across genres. Puzo continued to write novels, including The Sicilian and Family, blending crime, family drama, and epic narratives. His vivid characters and intricate plotting influenced generations of writers and filmmakers. He passed away in 1999, leaving a monumental legacy in both publishing and cinema.

Mochtar Lubis was born in 1922 in North Sumatra and became one of Indonesia's most prominent journalists, co-founding the Indonesian Observer newspaper. He fearlessly criticized government policies during the Sukarno and Suharto eras, leading to multiple imprisonments for his outspoken views. Lubis also earned acclaim as a novelist with works like Harimau! Harimau!, which explored themes of authority and human nature. His literary and journalistic achievements were recognized with awards such as the Ramon Magsaysay Award for Journalism. Lubis mentored a generation of Indonesian writers and advocated for freedom of expression. He remained active in literature and human rights until his death in 2004. Lubis's legacy endures through his contributions to Indonesian media and letters.

Ernest Lehman was born in 1915 in New York City and began his writing career as a journalist before transitioning to Hollywood. He wrote acclaimed screenplays for Alfred Hitchcock classics including North by Northwest and The Man Who Knew Too Much, showcasing his talent for suspense and dialogue. Lehman also penned the screenplay for The Sound of Music, which became one of the highest-grossing films of its time. In addition to screenwriting, he served as producer on projects such as Sweet Smell of Success, earning critical acclaim. His work earned him multiple Academy Award nominations and recognition from the Writers Guild of America. Lehman's meticulous approach to storytelling and character development set a high standard in the film industry. He continued to write and produce until his death in 2005, leaving behind a legacy of cinematic masterpieces.

Elizabeth Spriggs began her acting career with the Royal Shakespeare Company, winning acclaim for her commanding stage performances.\nShe appeared in film and television roles including 'Sense and Sensibility' and 'Harry Potter and the Philosopher's Stone', delighting audiences with her versatility.\nSpriggs also wrote scripts for radio and television dramas, showcasing her talent as a screenwriter.\nHer work spanned classical theater, contemporary drama, and blockbuster films, marking her as a dynamic performer.\nShe received multiple award nominations for her contributions to British arts.\nSpriggs passed away on July 2, 2008, leaving behind a legacy of unforgettable characters.

Beryl Bainbridge published her debut novel in 1972, earning praise for her darkly comic storytelling and psychological insight.\nHer notable works include 'An Awfully Big Adventure', 'Master Georgie', and 'Every Man for Himself', blending historical settings with richly drawn characters.\nShe won the Whitbread Book Award twice and was shortlisted for the Booker Prize on five occasions.\nBainbridge also adapted several novels into screenplays, extending her literary voice to film.\nHer unique blend of wit and depth secured her status as a leading figure in contemporary literature.\nShe died on July 2, 2010, leaving behind a body of work beloved by readers worldwide.

Maurice Chevit studied dramatic arts in Paris before launching a career on stage and screen.\nHe appeared in numerous French films and television series, demonstrating his versatility in both comedic and dramatic roles.\nChevit was a regular performer in theaters across France, collaborating with renowned directors and ensembles.\nAs a screenwriter, he adapted several works for television, contributing original scripts to the medium.\nHis dedication to his craft earned him respect among peers and audiences alike.\nHe died on July 2, 2012, remembered for his enduring presence in French performing arts.