Joyce Cary, writer and painter
On this day in 1957 the Anglo Irish writer Joyce Cary died. Cary originally wanted to be a painter but realised that he would never... Read More
Robert-Francois Damiens has a tough day
On this day in 1757 the unsuccessful regicide Robert-François Damiens was executed. Damiens was a simple man from Arras who attacked the French King Louis... Read More
Gregory Corso’s admiration for Shelley
On this day in 1930 American poet Gregory Corso was born. He was a member of the Beat Generation and a particular friend of Allen... Read More
Mary Webb’s stories of rustic discomfort
On this day in 1881 the novelist Mary Webb was born. Brought up in Shropshire, her stories are reminiscent in plot and style of her... Read More
John Millington Synge upsets the noble peasantry
On this day in 1909 Irish playwright and poet John Millington Synge died. Many of his best known plays are about Irish Catholic peasants in... Read More
Dame Nellie Melba, famous in operatic and cooking circles
On this day in 1901 Dame Nellie Melba revealed the secret of her famous toast. The toast had been invented along with the dessert Peach... Read More
Billy Collins, America’s favourite poet
On this day in 1941 American Poet Laureate Billy Collins was born. Called ‘America’s favourite poet’ he has several best-selling volumes to his name. His... Read More