October 13

Ernest Myers (1844–1921) was an English poet, scholar, and translator. Educated at Oxford, he became known for his eloquent and reflective poetry collections. Myers translated important classical works, including Homer's epics and Lucan's 'Pharsalia,' broadening their reach to Victorian readers. He served as a civil servant at the British Treasury while remaining active in literary societies. Myers was a member of the Poetry Society and collaborated with leading writers of his time. His work blended scholarly depth with emotional expression, influencing subsequent generations of poets. Myers's contributions to literature and translation are remembered for their elegance and erudition.

Mary Kingsley (1862–1900) was an intrepid English explorer and ethnographic writer. After traveling to Gabon and Cameroon, she studied local cultures, fish species, and traditional practices. Kingsley's decision to venture alone into remote regions challenged Victorian norms for women. Her book 'Travels in West Africa' provided detailed observations on geography, anthropology, and missionary work. She argued for understanding African societies on their own terms, criticizing colonial and missionary policies. Kingsley volunteered as a nurse during the Boer War but died at sea en route to join a relief mission. Her writings inspired future explorers and contributed to the development of African studies.

Born in Scranton, Pennsylvania in 1870, Nock became an influential individualist thinker. He taught at the University of Chicago and offered incisive critiques of state power. His best-known work, 'Our Enemy the State', remains a classic in libertarian literature. Nock's clear prose and uncompromising views shaped debates on individual liberty and government authority. Throughout his career, he engaged with contemporary intellectuals and advised political activists. He continued writing until his death in 1945, leaving a lasting legacy on American political discourse.

Born in New South Wales in 1878, Hartigan was ordained in 1901 and served rural parishes for decades. Writing under the pseudonym John O'Brien, he captured the spirit of the Australian bush in verse and prose. His 1908 collection 'Around the Boree Log' became a national favorite, celebrated for its warmth and humor. Hartigan’s work bridged religious reflection with a deep appreciation for country life and ordinary people. He continued to publish poetry and stories until his death in 1952, leaving a legacy as a cherished voice of early 20th-century Australia.

Born Aleksandr Mikhailovich Vanin in 1880, Chorny adopted his pen name to critique society with humor. His short poems and stories appeared in leading Russian journals, earning him widespread popularity. Chorny’s work often lampooned the bureaucracy and pretensions of his time, blending satire with empathy. Despite exile after the Russian Revolution, he continued writing for émigré publications in Paris. He died in 1932, and his sharp, accessible style influenced generations of Russian humorists and poets.

Born in Pennsylvania in 1890, Richter began his career as a reporter for small-town newspapers. He turned to fiction in the 1920s, drawing on American pioneer history for his settings and themes. Richter’s novel 'The Town' won the Pulitzer Prize in 1951 and cemented his reputation as a leading American author. His acclaimed works, including 'The Sea of Grass' and 'The Light in the Forest', explore the challenges of frontier life. Richter’s spare prose and deep historical research offered vivid portraits of early American communities. He continued writing until his death in 1968, influencing generations of historical novelists.

Arna Bontemps was a leading voice of the Harlem Renaissance, publishing poetry and novels that explored African American life. He authored works such as 'Personnels' and collaborated with Langston Hughes on novels like 'The Blacker the Berry'. Bontemps worked as a librarian for the Works Progress Administration and later the Library of Congress. He wrote children's books and historical novels that highlighted black history and culture. His scholarship and creative writing left a profound impact on American literature.

Born in 1909, Herbert Lawrence 'Herblock' Block became one of America's most influential editorial cartoonists. Over his career, he produced thousands of cartoons addressing political and social issues, earning him multiple Pulitzer Prizes. His work appeared in The Washington Post for decades, shaping public discourse through art and satire. Block's illustrations combined sharp wit with bold graphic style, making him a household name. He also authored books and collections of his cartoons, cementing his legacy as a leading figure in political illustration.

Born in 1911, Millosh Gjergj Nikolla adopted the pseudonym Migjeni and became a leading figure in Albanian literature. His poetry and prose addressed themes of poverty, social injustice, and national identity, resonating deeply with readers. Migjeni's most important works appeared in the 1930s, challenging traditional forms and introducing modernist elements to Albanian letters. Despite his premature death in 1938, his collections of poems and stories remain seminal texts in his country's literary canon. His fearless critique of societal issues and innovative style have earned him enduring recognition as a pioneer of Albanian modernism.

Born Boris Fakin in 1913, Igor Torkar took his pen name and became a significant voice in Slovenian literature. He published poetry and plays that explored human psychology, national identity, and the struggles of modern life. Torkar's works often blended realism with poetic imagery, earning him critical admiration in Yugoslav literary circles. His career spanned several decades, during which he influenced younger generations of writers and dramatists. Torkar's contributions solidified his reputation as a versatile and insightful creator of twentieth-century Slovenian literature.

John C. Champion was an American screenwriter and producer active in Hollywood from the 1950s through the 1970s. He began his career writing scripts for B-movie Westerns and adventure films, developing a reputation for tight plotting and engaging dialogue. Champion's notable credits include the film 'Jubal' (1956) starring Glenn Ford and the television series 'The Texan' (1958–1960). As a producer, he co-developed projects that balanced action, drama, and moral themes within modest budgets. Known for his collaborative approach, he worked closely with directors and actors to ensure each story resonated with audiences. Over his career, Champion contributed to both big-screen and small-screen storytelling, influencing the Western genre's evolution. His legacy endures through the enduring popularity of his scripts and the filmmakers he inspired.

Rosemary Anne Sisson was an English author and playwright whose career spanned stage, radio, and television from the 1960s through the early 21st century. She became known for her richly detailed historical dramas, exploring themes of power, romance, and political intrigue. Sisson contributed memorable scripts to acclaimed series such as 'Upstairs, Downstairs' and the BBC's Shakespeare on television. Her stage plays were performed by prestigious theatre companies, earning praise for their wit and period authenticity. As a writer for radio, she crafted original dramas that reached listeners nationwide, showcasing her versatility. Sisson lectured on dramaturgy and creative writing at several universities, mentoring aspiring writers. She was honored with awards for her work in British television and theatre. Her legacy endures through her contributions to the golden age of British period drama.