easy essay on kindness

Essay on Kindness

500 words essay on kindness.

The world we live in today has been through a lot of things from world wars to epidemics, but one thing which remained constant throughout was resilience and kindness. Moreover, it was the spirit to fight back and help out each other. Kindness must be an essential and universal quality to make the world a better place. Through an essay on kindness, we will go through it in detail.

Importance of Kindness

Kindness towards nature, animals and other people has the ability to transform the world and make it a beautiful place for living. But, it is also important to remember that kindness towards you is also essential for personal growth.

Kindness is basically being polite, compassionate and thoughtful. Every religion and faith teaches its followers to be kind. Most importantly, kindness must not limit to humans but also to every living creature.

Even nature has its own way of showing kindness. For instance, the trees grow fruits for us and provide us with shade. One must not see kindness as a core value but as a fundamental behavioural element. When you are kind to your loved ones, you create a stable base.

As people are becoming more self-centred today, we must learn kindness. We must try to integrate it into ourselves. You might not know how a small act of kindness can bring about a change in someone’s life. So, be kind always.

Kindness Always Wins

There is no doubt that kindness always wins and it has been proven time and again by people. Sid is a greedy man who does not share his wealth with anyone, not even his family members.

He also does not pay his workers well. One day, he loses his bag of gold coins and loses his temper. Everyone helps him out to search for it but no one finds it. Finally, his worker’s little son finds the bag.

Upon checking the bag, he sees all the coins are there. But, his greed makes him play a trick on the poor worker. He claims that there were more coins in the bag and the worker stole them.

The issue goes to the court and the judge confirms from Sid whether his bag had more coins to which he agrees. So, the judge rules out that as Sid’s bag had more coins , the bag which the worker’s son found is not his.

Therefore, the bag gets handed to the worker as no one else claims it. Consequently, you see how the worker’s son act of kindness won and paid him well. On the other hand, how Sid’s greediness resulted in his loss only.

Get the huge list of more than 500 Essay Topics and Ideas

Conclusion of the Essay on Kindness

It is essential for all of us to understand the value of kindness. Always remember, it does not cost anything to be kind. It may be a little compliment or it can be a grand gesture, no matter how big or small, kindness always matters. Therefore, try your best to be kind to everyone around you.

FAQ of Essay on Kindness

Question 1: Why is it important to be kind?

Answer 1: It is important to be kind because it makes one feel good about oneself. When you do things for other people and help them with anything, it makes you feel warm and that you have accomplished something. Moreover, you also get respect in return.

Question 2: Why is kindness so powerful?

Answer 2: Kindness has a lot of benefits which includes increased happiness and a healthy heart . It slows down the ageing process and also enhances relationships and connections, which will indirectly boost your health.

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✍️Essay on Kindness: Samples in 100, 150 and 200 Words

• Updated on  
• Nov 2, 2023

Research says that being kind to someone or vice versa can positively rewire your brain. Kindness is when one is generous to another person. Well, in today’s world, it is very difficult. We can hardly find anyone. Do you wish to bring a change in your lifestyle ? Well, you have come to the right place. Today, we will be talking about kindness in depth. Here, in this article, we have compiled several sample essays on kindness which describe this topic in depth. 

Table of Contents

• 1 Importance of Kindness
• 2 Essay on Kindness in 100 Words
• 3 Essay on Kindness in 150 Words
• 4 Essay on Kindness in 200 Words

Importance of Kindness

Kindness is an effortless yet powerful gesture which put a very positive impact on someone’s life. In the academic community, this gesture is seen as an attitude that can create a huge impact on one’s achievement. 

Speaking in a bit of a medical language, being kind to someone boosts serotonin and dopamine. These brain chemicals, known as neurotransmitters, are what light up your reward and pleasure centres and give you a sense of fulfilment.

This doesn’t end here. Kindness has been shown to have cardioprotective effects. It can lower blood pressure and the stress hormone cortisol, which in turn affects stress levels. 

Speaking of which, here, we have compiled an essay on kindness which will provide you with more information on this topic. Let’s dive in. 

Also Read: Essay on the Importance of the English Language for Students

Essay on Kindness in 100 Words

Being kind is a basic virtue which is very important for humankind to create a world that is more peaceful and compassionate. It is one of the most straightforward acts which can be shown by anyone to others without expecting anything in return. When it comes to showing kindness, there are many ways by which one can show it. These include opening doors for others giving your time to support a good cause or simply being with them during their hard times. 

Always remember that even showing a tiny act of kindness can create a huge impact in someone’s life or simply make their day better. 

Also Read: Essay on Save Environment: Samples in 100, 200, 300 Words

Essay on Kindness in 150 Words

Kindness is a feeling of being generous, friendly and considerate. In a world full of hatred and cruelty, kindness is what one can spread. You never know whom you might someone from a having bad day. One can simply start spreading kindness in the community they are living in. 

One of the best examples to describe the word kindness would be Mother Teresa . She devoted her entire life to caring for the destitute and dying in the slums of Calcutta (Kolkata). She is considered to be one of the greatest humanitarians the world has ever produced.

Speaking of kindness, doing little things such as opening a door for someone. Helping an elderly person cross the street, or holding things of someone are some basic things which can be done.

To conclude, kindness is contagious. It can spread like wildfire. Therefore, in a world where there is so much hatred, and cruelty, where people are fighting. One can be kind which will provoke others to do the same. 

Also Read: Essay on Unity in Diversity in 100 to 200 Words

Essay on Kindness in 200 Words

Kindness is one of the most important qualities which people should have. This is very important to create a more compassionate and harmonious world. The simple act of being considerate towards others and not expecting anything in return is kindness. The word ‘kindness’ can be expressed in many different ways. From helping someone during tough times to helping an old lady cross the street is what best describes this word. 

Other than this, kindness is also beneficial for our well-being. Studies show that people who are kind to people around them tend to be more happy than others. This is because of the endorphins which are released. They contribute towards mood-boosting and pain-relieving effects. Not only this, kindness has also proved to have reduced stress levels and improved cardiovascular health.

To conclude, I would like to leave you all with a thought. In today’s times, we hardly come across kind people. Consider ourselves, we may feel for others around us going through the bad phase but how often do we reach out and assist them? It is our responsibility to nurture kindness in ourselves before we can ask others to do the same for us.

Related Articles 

We hope after reading some of these essays on kindness, your perspective on kindness would have changed. Always remember, everyone is fighting their own battles, so the best you can do is be a little kind and bring a smile to their face. Signing off!

There are certain advantages to our happiness and general well-being for those of us who are kind and caring. Perhaps we will live longer. Additionally, kindness lowers stress and enhances mental health.

These expressions describe persons who are kind, considerate, and considerate of others’ feelings.

Kindness belongs to the human virtue category and is one of the 24 universal character strengths.

For more information on such interesting topics, visit our essay-writing page and follow Leverage Edu ! 

Malvika Chawla

Malvika is a content writer cum news freak who comes with a strong background in Journalism and has worked with renowned news websites such as News 9 and The Financial Express to name a few. When not writing, she can be found bringing life to the canvasses by painting on them.

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51 Kindness Essay Topics & Examples

Looking for kindness topic ideas to write about? The concepts of kindness, generosity, and compassion are crucial nowadays.

🏆 Best Kindness Essay Examples

📌 top kindness topics to write about, 🥰 interesting kindness essay topics, 👍 controversial kindness topic ideas, 🙏 catchy kindness essay titles.

Being a debated subject in philosophy, psychology, and religion, kindness is definitely worth writing about. The topic of kindness is one of the key in the Bible. It has become especially important nowadays, in the era of intolerance and instability. In your kindness essay, you might want to focus on the importance of helping others. Another option is to consider the concept of kindness in philosophy, psychology, and religion. Whatever direction you will choose, this article will be helpful. It contains everything necessary to write an A+ paper on generosity & compassion! There are kindness essay examples, topics, and research titles.

• Acts of Kindness and Happiness in Human Life The research at hand is aimed to prove that, to boost happiness through receiving positive emotions, a person should commit more actions that can be referred to as acts of kindness.
• Stories of Random Acts of Kindness Foundation I made a shopping list and after completing it, I went to one of the shelters to hand over the purchases to its representatives. In addition, it is important to understand that the reaction of […]
• Critical Response “On Compassion” She is a lawyer, a sign that her level of literacy is quite higher and she able to learn and understand, even by seeing, the situation of other people.
• Random Acts of Kindness Foundation and Personal Acts of Kindness This exercise enabled me to reflect on my principles and think about the kind of impact I make in my day-to-day life.
• Acts of Kindness in Society Initially, she wrote a report on this topic, in the preparation of which she visited the shelter and was upset to tears about how depressing the life of animals is.
• “The Kindness of Strangers” by Ruben Martinez The USA may promote itself to be the “land of immigrants” with the Statue of Liberty as a shining reminder of what the rhetoric of residency means.
• Does True Altruism Exist? Therefore, in their experiment, Cialdini and his colleagues sought to separate the feelings of sadness from those of empathy among the subjects in order to assess the reliability of the findings of the former experiments […]
• Altruism and social behavior This shows altruism is not only beneficial to the recipients of the meritorious deeds but also to the doers of the deeds.
• An Anonymous Act of Kindness When speaking about the relation of altruism to psychology, it is necessary to state that altruism is considered to be the issue of social psychology.
• “Selfless Gene” by Olivia Judson and Reasons for Altruism Once people realize that the biology and social life of another race is the same, they tend to be more understanding and kind.
• The Role of Compassion While Anne Fadiman’s this book seems to be primarily related to the impact of linguistic and cultural barriers on the experiences of immigrants, Amy Tan’s essay suggests that their difficulties can be explained primarily by […]
• Happy People Become Happier through Kindness: A Counting Kindnesses Intervention
• How Kindness Shapes One’s Destiny in Million Dollar Baby
• How Patience Can Be Considered An Act Of Kindness
• Important to Treat Patients with Kindness and Respect
• Introspection in A Complicated Kindness and The Catcher in the Rye
• Jacqueline Woodson’s Lovely Letter to Children About Kindness, Presence, and How Books Transform Us
• Job’s Suffering Not Befitting His Kindness and Compassion
• Larry and Friends: An Illustrated Ode to Immigration, Diversity, Otherness, and Kindness
• Love, Kindness, and the Song of the Universe: The Night Jack Kerouac Kept a Young Woman from Taking Her Own Life
• Marcus Aurelius on What His Father Taught Him About Humility, Honor, Kindness, and Integrity
• Muslim Muslims And Muslim People With Kindness And Love Essay
• People Can Still Show Kindness Despite all the Evil Out There Essay
• Portrayal Of The Tuskegee Syphilis Experiment On Kindness
• Positive Interventions: Happiness Attained from Acts of Kindness and Gratitude
• Revealing of the True Identity in Complicated Kindness by Miriam Toews and Mister Pip by Lloyd Jones
• Revisiting Kindness and Confusion in Public Goods Experiments
• Roland: A Charming Vintage Illustrated Ode to the Imagination and the Animating Power of Kindness
• Secular Views on the Concept of Kindness
• Self-Indulgence or Kindness as the Keys to Happiness and a Better Life
• Self-Scrutiny Applied with Kindness: Epictetus’s Enduring Wisdom on Happiness and How Philosophy Helps Us Answer the Soul’s Cry
• Shakespeare: Portia’s Kindness Out Shines
• The Disabled With The Utmost Kindness And Compassion
• The Effect Of Kindness During The Iranian Revolution
• The Effect Of Random Acts Of Kindness, And Social Responsibility
• The Essence of Life: Kindness
• The Farmer and the Clown: A Warm Wordless Story about an Unlikely Friendship and How We Ennoble Each Other with Kindness
• The Huge Impact of the Small Acts of Kindness in Mawi Asgedom’s Memoir of Beetles
• The Importance of Kindness and Thankfulness in The Rihla Essay
• The Importance of Showing Kindness Through Acts
• The Importance of the Qualities of Shredders, Adaptability and Basic Human Kindness in Mark Twain’s Novel, The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn
• The Injustice of Reality: Social Messages in Gilman’s “Wedded Bliss” and Plath’s “Kindness”
• The Issue Of Identity Change In The Novels “Mister Pip” By Lloyd Jones And “A Complicated Kindness” By Miriam Toews
• The Kindness of Strangers? An Investigation into the Interaction of Funder Motivations in Online Crowdfunding Campaigns
• The Kindness of Strangers: The Usefulness of Electronic Weak Ties for Technical Advice
• The Lion and the Mouse who Returned a Kindness
• Themes of a Complicated Kindness by Miriam Toews
• The Semblance of Selflessness: The Ingenuity of Kindness in As I Lay Dying
• The Theme of Kindness in The Grapes of Wrath, a Novel by John Steinbeck
• The Toil of Good and Evil: Multi-Faceted Kindness in The Book Thief
• The Value Of Kindness In Bhakti According To Vyasa’s The Bhagavad Gita
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IvyPanda. (2024, February 28). 51 Kindness Essay Topics & Examples. https://ivypanda.com/essays/topic/kindness-essay-examples/

"51 Kindness Essay Topics & Examples." IvyPanda , 28 Feb. 2024, ivypanda.com/essays/topic/kindness-essay-examples/.

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IvyPanda . "51 Kindness Essay Topics & Examples." February 28, 2024. https://ivypanda.com/essays/topic/kindness-essay-examples/.

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Kindness Essay

Kindness is a valuable trait that can have a positive impact on our lives and the lives of those around us. It can help to build strong relationships, reduce stress and anxiety, and improve our physical health. However, it's important to remember that being kind can be difficult at times, and it takes practice and patience to make it a consistent part of our daily lives. Here are a few sample essays on kindness.

100 Word Essay On Kindness

There has been a saying that “be kind and do kind” means that be soulfully and mindfully kind so that you can do. Kindness is a type of behaviour that is marked by acts of generosity, consideration, rendering assistance or concern for others without expecting any praise or reward in return for the same.

Kindness is one of the main topics in the Bible, and it is a topic which is well taught and praised by every religion in the world. Nietzsche has said kindness and love are considered to be the "most curative herbs and agents in human intercourse". Not only this but there have been practitioners who have identified kindness as one of the most beautiful things to happen to mankind.

200 Word Essay On Kindness

Kindness and love are closely intertwined, as one often leads to the other. When we act out of generosity and do something good for others, we are likely to receive similar or even greater acts of kindness in return. This is the principle of karma, where we reap what we sow. By being kind to others, we are able to empathise and put ourselves in their shoes, and in doing so, we are able to make a positive impact on their lives.

The practice of kindness has many benefits, not just for the recipients, but also for the giver. It can help to build friendships, bring joy and make life more fulfilling. In a world where competition can often be fierce, it is important to teach the younger generation the importance of kindness and generosity. By fostering these qualities in schools, we can help to create a kinder, more compassionate society.

There are countless books, articles and other resources that explore the topic of kindness in depth. But despite this, society as a whole has yet to fully embrace a culture of kindness on a broader level. By making a conscious effort to be kind to others, we can work together to make the world a better place for all.

500 Word Essay On Kindness

Kindness is a powerful force that has the ability to change lives, both for the giver and the receiver. It is defined as the act of being considerate and caring towards others, and it encompasses a wide range of behaviors, from small acts of generosity to large acts of selflessness.

One of the benefits of being kind is that it can help to build strong and meaningful relationships. When we are kind to others, we demonstrate that we care about them and that we value their well-being. This can help to create a sense of trust and understanding, which are essential ingredients for any healthy relationship.

Another benefit of kindness is that it can help to reduce stress and anxiety. Studies have shown that acts of kindness can trigger the release of feel-good hormones in the brain, such as oxytocin and serotonin, which can help to improve our mood and reduce feelings of stress.

Additionally, kindness can also have a positive impact on our physical health. Research has shown that people who engage in acts of kindness on a regular basis have a lower risk of developing certain chronic conditions, such as heart disease and diabetes.

One way to make kindness a regular practice is to set small and achievable goals for ourselves. For example, we can make a commitment to perform one act of kindness per day, or to make a conscious effort to be more understanding and empathetic towards others. Another way is to remind ourselves that kindness is not only about grand gestures, but also about small actions that can have a big impact on someone's life.

Personal Experience

I remember the day when a severe storm hit my village, leaving many of the houses damaged and people homeless. As I walked around the village, I saw the destruction and the despair on the faces of my fellow villagers. I knew that I had to do something to help.

I rallied my friends and together we set out to repair the houses and provide shelter for those who had lost theirs. It was hard work, but we were determined to help as many people as possible. We worked tirelessly, through the rain and the wind, never once complaining.

As we went from house to house, I could see the gratitude and appreciation on the faces of the people we were helping. It was a small act of kindness, but it made such a big difference in their lives.

Through our efforts, the village slowly began to recover, and the people were able to rebuild their homes and their lives. But the kindness we had shown was not forgotten. We had shown the villagers that even in the darkest of times, there is always hope, and that through kindness and compassion, we can overcome any obstacle.

From that day on, I felt proud of my actions, and I realized the power of kindness. I had shown that one person's kindness can make a huge impact in the lives of many. I felt a sense of accomplishment and happiness that I was able to bring people together and make a difference.

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Kindness Essay | Essay on Kindness for Students and Children in English

February 13, 2024 by Prasanna

Essay on Kindness: The world has been devastated by two world wars, recurring bouts of disease and devastation. Amid such tremendous hardship, human beings have depicted resilience and kindness to fight back and help each other. Kindness is an essential and universal quality that is based on the concepts of altruism and prosocial behavior.

Kindness towards Nature, animals, and other people can transform the world and make it a beautiful place to live. However, kindness towards yourself is also crucial in the journey of personal growth and achievement. We have provided essays below from where students can learn.

You can read more  Essay Writing  about articles, events, people, sports, technology many more.

Long and Short Essays on Kindness for Students and Kids in English

A Long essay has been provided below; it is of 450-500 words. A short Essay of 100-150 words has also been given. 10 lines on kindness have also been written down, along with some answers to frequently asked questions.

Long Essay on Kindness 500 words in English

Kindness essay will be helpful to students of classes 7, 8, 9 and 10.

Kindness can be described as the value of being polite, compassionate, and thoughtful. Unconditional love, tenderness, comfort, concern, and support are words associated with kindness. Although kindness has an undertone that someone is innocent or vulnerable, that’s not the case. Being compassionate also calls for bravery and determination. Compassion is an interactive ability.

People have heard about the survival of the fittest theory given by evolutionary theorists. Darwin, who researched human Nature, did not necessarily perceive humans as being physically aggressive and self-interested. Darwin claimed that we’re a fundamentally collaborative and loving community. He asserted that affection and compassion for others is natural and reflexive.

Kindness is taught in every religious faith. Be it Hinduism, Sikhism, or Islamic law or some other religion, they all prepare us to show compassion towards others. The term is not limited to human application. Cruelty to all living creatures is a sin in many religious scriptures. Even the deaf animals raise their tail as a reciprocal response of compassion expressed towards them. Trees show similar reactions. They grow large and produce fruit in response to the kind behavior of their caregivers. Nature has its way of communicating appreciation and compassion.

Kindness is not a core value to be embraced or shown in particular situations. Instead, it should be absorbed as the fundamental behavioral element of living creatures. Compassion is not only a moral attribute. But in all aspects of existence, it can be quite well adapted. Being compassionate to your parents or friends helps create a stable family base.

Showing courtesy to friends and neighbors tends to create a healthy social climate. Only small considerations and selfless acts of kindness can help to build up a successful company. As has been said previously, every human person knows the language of compassion.

While important, kindness is not a characteristic that is widely seen in people these days. In today’s time, people have become incredibly self-absorbed. All they can talk about is themselves. Growing rivalry at various points of our lives is one of the most important reasons people turn out to be this way.

Everyone around here is busy making themselves successful and showing the world how better their lives are compared to others’ lives. They don’t hesitate to offend those in their way to reach everything they want. Though there’s nothing wrong with innovating, you have to realize that there’s a lot more to life, so it’s not just about competition and winning.

Presently, although most people don’t have the trait of compassion, it can be integrated into them with a slight endeavor. This can be achieved by explaining the value of it from the very start. Workshops must be held, and presentations must be provided to teach students why it is necessary to be kind to human beings. This topic must be an integral part of the curriculum in schools. It is important to stress its significance from the very beginning so that citizens can appreciate and teach it.

Short Essay on the Topic of Kindness 150 words

Kindness Essay is usually given to classes 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, and 6.

An individual with a generous temperament and respect towards everyone is considered to be kind. These individuals are compassionate to others. They support others around them if there is a need, and they never fail to go out of their way to put joy on the face of others.

Kindness could be something as tiny as being courteous and providing someone support and encouragement. It could be something as surprisingly small as passing a kind word to the maidservant who works tirelessly in your house or giving a little bit of food to the stray dog who comes near the house every day. These gestures of kindness don’t take a lot of time, but they can create a change. Acts of kindness can help in creating a beautiful and sustainable world.

10 lines on Kindness Essay in English

• Kindness involves being empathetic and considerate towards others.
• Kindness should be shown towards Nature as well as animals.
• Kindness should not be dictated by class conformities, caste, or divided by the community’s social structures.
• Kindness can bring about significant changes in the world.
• Kindness is an essential personal quality required for thriving relationships and a happy life.
• Kindness involves self-care and concern about yourself as well.
• There can be various means like emotional or tangible support, by which you can show kindness.
• Kindness is premised on the concept of altruism and prosocial actions.
• Being kind usually involves reciprocity. If you are kind to others, they, in turn, will be helpful to you.
• Kindness helps in sustaining a peaceful and nourishing world.

FAQ’s on Kindness Essay

Question 1. How can you be kind to others?

Answer: Kindness can be anything as small as giving a radiant smile to a person to providing monetary help to build houses and schools for the poor.

Question 2. Why is kindness extraordinary?

Answer: Kindness is essential to create a peaceful world and support future generations of the human race.

Question 3. What will happen in a world devoid of kindness?

Answer: In a world devoid of kindness, the carefully balanced systems in which we live, and our relations with the natural and animal world will break down, leading to hardship and troubles for humanity.

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Essay Samples on Kindness

What does kindness mean to me: a reflection.

What does kindness mean to you? Kindness, a simple yet profound gesture, holds the power to illuminate the lives of both the giver and the receiver. As I contemplate what kindness means to me, I am reminded of its transformative impact on individuals and society...

The Importance of Being Kind to Others

Kindness is a simple yet profound virtue that has the power to transform lives, communities, and the world at large. It is a universal language that transcends cultural and linguistic barriers, fostering connections and nurturing empathy. In a world often marked by division and strife,...

An Act of Kindness: The Ripple Effect of Compassion

Amid the challenges and complexities of the modern world, simple acts of kindness have the power to transcend barriers and create positive change. An act of kindness is a selfless gesture that holds the potential to touch lives, inspire others, and foster a sense of...

A Random Act of Kindness: Experiencing the Goodness of Humanity

In a world that can sometimes feel cold and distant, even the smallest acts of kindness have the power to warm our hearts and restore our faith in humanity. One such act that left a lasting impression on me was a random act of kindness...

The Three Core Values of Aging: Dignity, Kindness, and Security

In the last two centuries, life expectancy has doubled from around forty years to over eighty years in Canada and I personally believe that this is one of humanity’s most incredible feats. However; this improved longevity also presents us with one of our greatest challenges....

• Social Security

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Where Do You See Yourself in 5 Years: Where Is Happiness of Life

Imagine having a life all planned out, then one thing goes wrong. Oe someone passes away or they move, it could be a big or a small change, but any situation could completely alter the outlook on life. One day the glass could be half...

• Personal Beliefs

Relation Between Kindness And Happiness

Kindness. Kindness is one of the most powerful forces that boost one’s happiness. We define kindness in countless terms because it holds a different meaning for everyone. From helping someone in need without searching for anything in return, being honest, respecting others' opinions, accepting others...

• Positive Psychology

Role Of Kindness And Gentleness When Giving Da’wah

Introduction The contemporary dā’ī (preacher) is one who proselytizes to non-Muslims (da’wah) and reforms wayward and ignorant Muslims (ʾiṣlāḥ). They achieve this through volunteering in local projects, encouraging engagement in religious programs and seminars, counselling people in need, enjoining good and forbidding evil (al-‘amr bil...

The Theme of Kindness and Its Loss in Shakespeare's King Lear

Within the world, kindness is a symbol of love and compassion. The values and thoughts individuals may have might differ and contrast with another, but the feeling and joy of bringing kindness into one’s heart is an undeniable sensation that can be appreciated by all...

• William Shakespeare

Tara Curb, Her Acts of Kindness Association, and Her Unique Vision of Kindness

It is a late-afternoon, November 7, 2019, on a freezing thirty-five degree and gloomy Thursday at the University of Oklahoma Bizzell Memorial Library. In one of the conference rooms held a Acts of Kindness Association meeting. Running the organization meeting was a smart young woman,...

• Someone Who Inspires Me

The Role of Kindness in the Modern World

In this world full of antagonism, we all affray for existence, but the only thing that brings peace of mind is the hand serving kindness. Remember, any time you have been mean or curt to someone and that actually made you happy? No. It never...

The Nature and Significance of Kindness in Human Societies

The quest of otherworldly rapture, or in the search of peace, the term kindness is often thrust into the mainstream throughout the years. Since childhood, adolescents are told by their elders to act kind and behave kind, typically meaning to give politeness in order to...

• Modern Society

Overview Of My Most Pronounced Personality Traits

Human beings have different personality traits and most likely they are influenced by their peers as well as their background. I think to myself that you can be able to define a person’s character according to their actions and preferably how they relate with people...

• Personality

Best topics on Kindness

1. What Does Kindness Mean to Me: a Reflection

2. The Importance of Being Kind to Others

3. An Act of Kindness: The Ripple Effect of Compassion

4. A Random Act of Kindness: Experiencing the Goodness of Humanity

5. The Three Core Values of Aging: Dignity, Kindness, and Security

6. Where Do You See Yourself in 5 Years: Where Is Happiness of Life

7. Relation Between Kindness And Happiness

8. Role Of Kindness And Gentleness When Giving Da’wah

9. The Theme of Kindness and Its Loss in Shakespeare’s King Lear

10. Tara Curb, Her Acts of Kindness Association, and Her Unique Vision of Kindness

11. The Role of Kindness in the Modern World

12. The Nature and Significance of Kindness in Human Societies

13. Overview Of My Most Pronounced Personality Traits

• Personal Experience
• Perseverance

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Essay on Kindness

Essay generator.

In a world bustling with diverse activities, where ambition often overshadows empathy, kindness emerges as a beacon of hope and warmth. This essay explores the profound essence of kindness, its definition, inherent meaning, and the impactful ways it can be incorporated into our daily lives, especially for students aspiring to make a difference.

Kindness , at its core, is a selfless act marked by acts of generosity, consideration, and care towards others without expecting anything in return. It transcends mere politeness and delves into the realm of empathy and compassion. In the simplest form, kindness can be a smile, a helping hand, or a comforting word – small gestures that hold the power to transform moments and lives.

The Multifaceted Nature of Kindness

Kindness is not a singular, isolated behavior but a complex interplay of various attributes. It involves:

• Empathy: Understanding and sharing the feelings of others.
• Compassion: A deep awareness of others’ suffering coupled with a desire to alleviate it.
• Generosity: The willingness to give time, energy, or resources.
• Gratitude: Appreciating and recognizing the good in others and in the world.

The Impact of Kindness

Kindness, though often quiet and unassuming, has a ripple effect that extends far beyond the initial interaction. Studies have shown that acts of kindness:

• Improve Well-being: Both the giver and receiver of kindness experience heightened feelings of happiness and contentment.
• Foster Connections: Kindness bridges gaps between people, fostering a sense of community and belonging.
• Inspire More Kindness: Witnessing or experiencing kindness often prompts individuals to act kindly themselves, creating a cycle of goodwill.

Benefits of Kindness

• Improved Well-being: Acts of kindness, whether giving or receiving, can trigger the release of endorphins, often referred to as “feel-good” hormones, leading to an improved sense of well-being and happiness.
• Better Relationships: Kindness is a key factor in building and maintaining healthy relationships. Acts of kindness, such as listening empathetically or providing support, can strengthen connections with others.
• Improved Mental Health: Engaging in acts of kindness has been linked to improved mental health outcomes, including reduced symptoms of depression and increased life satisfaction.
• Physical Health Benefits: Research suggests that kindness can have positive effects on physical health, such as improved heart health and a boosted immune system.
• Enhanced Self-esteem: Acts of kindness can boost one’s self-esteem and self-worth, as they provide a sense of purpose and fulfillment.
• Positive Social Impact: Acts of kindness can create a ripple effect, inspiring others to engage in kind actions as well. This can contribute to a more compassionate and harmonious society.
• Increased Happiness: Engaging in acts of kindness has been associated with greater overall life satisfaction and happiness, as it brings joy to both the giver and receiver.
• Strengthened Bonds: Kindness strengthens bonds between individuals and can lead to deeper and more meaningful relationships with family, friends, and colleagues.
• Personal Growth: Practicing kindness can lead to personal growth and a greater sense of purpose, as it encourages individuals to be more mindful, compassionate, and empathetic.
• Cultural and Global Harmony: Kindness is a fundamental value in promoting cultural and global harmony, fostering peace, cooperation, and understanding among diverse groups.
• Positive Influence: Kindness can serve as a positive influence, inspiring others to follow suit and engage in acts of kindness, creating a more compassionate and caring world.
• Personal Fulfillment: Ultimately, practicing kindness can lead to a sense of personal fulfillment and a greater purpose in life, as it contributes to the betterment of oneself and others.

Kindness in Everyday Life

Incorporating kindness into daily life can be simple yet profound. Here are some ways students can practice kindness:

• Volunteering: Offering time to help others, be it in a community center, a local charity, or a school event.
• Listening Actively: Sometimes, offering an ear to someone who needs to talk is one of the kindest things one can do.
• Sharing Knowledge: Helping a peer understand a tough concept or sharing study resources.
• Small Acts of Thoughtfulness: Complimenting someone, thanking a teacher, or helping a younger student.

Overcoming Barriers to Kindness

While the concept of kindness is universally admired, practicing it consistently can be challenging. Barriers include:

• Busy Schedules: The fast pace of life can make us overlook opportunities to be kind.
• Fear of Rejection: Sometimes, people hesitate to offer help, fearing their efforts won’t be appreciated.
• Misunderstanding Kindness: Kindness is not about grand gestures; even the smallest act can make a significant impact.

Kindness in Literature and History

Throughout literature and history, kindness has been a recurring theme. From the parables of ancient scriptures advocating for compassion to modern tales celebrating unsung heroes, kindness is a thread that weaves through the tapestry of human experience.

Kindness in the Digital Age

In the era of social media and digital communication, kindness has taken on new forms. It’s vital for students to practice kindness online by:

• Being Respectful in Interactions: Avoiding negative comments and spreading positivity.
• Supporting Causes: Using digital platforms to support charitable causes and spread awareness.

In conclusion, Kindness, in its essence, is about recognizing our shared humanity and extending warmth to others in our journey. For students participating in essay writing competitions, this essay serves not just as an exploration of the concept but also as an invitation to embody kindness in their lives. In a world often clouded by competition and individualism, kindness stands out as a universal language of empathy and compassion, capable of transforming both the giver and receiver, and ultimately, the world.

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Essay on Act of Kindness

Students are often asked to write an essay on Act of Kindness in their schools and colleges. And if you’re also looking for the same, we have created 100-word, 250-word, and 500-word essays on the topic.

Let’s take a look…

100 Words Essay on Act of Kindness

Understanding kindness.

Kindness is a quality that involves being friendly, generous, and considerate. Small acts of kindness can make a big difference in other people’s lives in ways we may not even realize.

Importance of Kindness

Examples of kindness.

Simple acts like giving a smile to a stranger, helping an elderly cross the road, or sharing your lunch with a friend are all acts of kindness.

Kindness is a simple yet powerful way to show others that they matter and are valued.

250 Words Essay on Act of Kindness

The essence of kindness.

Kindness, a simple act that holds immense power, has the potential to transform lives in a profound manner. It’s a universal language that transcends borders, cultures, and religions, and is fundamental to human existence.

The Impact of Kindness

The ripple effect of a single act of kindness can be far-reaching. It not only uplifts the recipient’s spirits, but also positively influences the benefactor’s psychological wellbeing. Studies suggest that kindness stimulates the production of serotonin, a neurotransmitter that induces feelings of happiness and contentment.

Kindness and Society

In a society often marred by strife and discord, acts of kindness serve as a potent antidote. They foster social cohesion, promote empathy and understanding, and counteract the detrimental effects of stress, aggression, and antisocial behavior.

Kindness as a Learned Behavior

Kindness is not an innate trait, but a learned behavior. It requires conscious effort and practice to cultivate. Educational institutions play a crucial role in promoting kindness, instilling in students the values of compassion, empathy, and respect for others.

500 Words Essay on Act of Kindness

Kindness is a universal language that transcends all barriers. It is the act of demonstrating love, compassion, and empathy towards others, regardless of their race, religion, or social status. Kindness is a virtue that is not only beneficial to the recipient but also to the person who practices it.

Impact of Kindness on Society

Kindness has a profound impact on society. It fosters a sense of community and mutual respect among individuals. When people are kind to each other, they create a positive environment that encourages cooperation and harmony. Kindness can also be a powerful tool for social change. It can help to alleviate social inequalities and injustices by promoting understanding and acceptance.

Kindness and Psychological Well-being

The act of kindness has significant implications for psychological well-being. It can increase happiness, reduce stress, and improve mental health. When we perform acts of kindness, our brain releases endorphins, the body’s natural painkiller. This release induces a feeling of well-being and satisfaction, often referred to as the “helper’s high”. Furthermore, kindness can help to build self-esteem and a positive self-image, as it allows individuals to feel valued and appreciated.

Kindness and Physical Health

Kindness in practice.

Kindness can be practiced in many ways. It can be as simple as a smile, a kind word, or a thoughtful gesture. It can also involve more substantial acts, such as volunteering, donating to charity, or helping someone in need. Despite the form it takes, the act of kindness always has the potential to make a significant difference in someone’s life.

The Ripple Effect of Kindness

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Essay on Kindness 500+ Words

Kindness is a simple yet powerful virtue that has the potential to make the world a better place. It is the act of being caring, considerate, and compassionate toward others. In this essay, we will explore the profound importance of kindness, its impact on individuals and society, and why it should be cherished and practiced by all.

Defining Kindness

Kindness is the quality of being friendly, generous, and helpful to others without expecting anything in return. It’s about extending a helping hand, offering a comforting word, or simply being there for someone in need. Kindness can be shown through small acts of courtesy or grand gestures of benevolence.

Dr. Jane Stevens, a renowned psychologist, suggests that kindness is an innate human quality that can be cultivated and nurtured. It’s a fundamental part of our social nature, and when practiced regularly, it can lead to a more harmonious and caring society.

The Impact on Individuals

Kindness has a remarkable impact on the well-being of individuals. Studies have shown that acts of kindness can reduce stress, increase happiness, and improve overall mental health. When we are kind to others, it not only benefits them but also lifts our own spirits.

For example, research by the National Institute of Mental Health found that individuals who regularly engage in acts of kindness report lower levels of anxiety and depression. Kindness creates a positive feedback loop, benefiting both the giver and the recipient.

Building Stronger Relationships

Kindness is a vital ingredient in building and maintaining strong relationships. Whether it’s within families, friendships, or communities, acts of kindness create bonds of trust and mutual support. Kindness fosters a sense of connection and belonging.

Dr. Mark Williams, a relationship expert, emphasizes that kind gestures, such as listening with empathy or offering help in times of need, strengthen the foundations of relationships. It’s these small acts of kindness that build trust and intimacy.

The Ripple Effect

Kindness has a ripple effect that extends beyond the immediate act. When we are kind to someone, they are more likely to pass on that kindness to others, creating a chain reaction of positive behavior. This ripple effect can lead to a more compassionate and caring society.

A study by the Random Acts of Kindness Foundation found that one act of kindness often inspires three more acts of kindness. This demonstrates the potential for kindness to create a domino effect of goodwill in our communities.

Kindness in Society

Kindness is not just a personal virtue; it is also a cornerstone of a harmonious society. When communities are filled with kind and compassionate individuals, they tend to be more inclusive, supportive, and resilient.

According to the World Happiness Report, countries with a strong sense of community and social support tend to rank higher in overall happiness. This suggests that kindness plays a pivotal role in creating happier and more harmonious societies.

Conclusion of Essay on Kindness

In conclusion, kindness is a precious and transformative virtue that has the power to improve our lives and the world around us. It benefits individuals by promoting well-being, strengthening relationships, and creates a positive ripple effect in society. Kindness is not a scarce resource; it is something that each of us can cultivate and share with others.

As we navigate through life, let us remember the importance of kindness and strive to incorporate it into our daily interactions. Kindness is not just a choice; it is a responsibility that we owe to ourselves and to humanity. By practicing kindness, we contribute to a world that is more compassionate, caring, and full of positive possibilities.

Also Check: The Essay on Essay: All you need to know

Essay on Kindness

Introduction to Kindness

Kindness is the quiet symphony of humanity, composed of countless notes of empathy , compassion, and understanding. The gentle touch heals wounds unseen, the warm embrace that shields us against life’s storms, and the beacon of light guides us through the darkness. In a world often overshadowed by chaos and indifference, kindness stands as a radiant force, bridging divides and cultivating connections that transcend barriers of culture, language, and belief.

It is not merely a fleeting gesture but a transformative power that can uplift spirits, mend broken souls, and inspire hope in the hearts of all who encounter its grace. Consider the story of a stranger who pays for a struggling mother’s groceries or a friend who listens during tough times. These acts of kindness not only brighten someone’s day but also have the power to create a ripple effect, fostering a more compassionate and harmonious society. In this essay, we explore the significance of kindness and its profound impact on individuals and communities alike.

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Importance of Kindness in Society

Kindness is the cornerstone of a harmonious and flourishing society, fostering empathy, cooperation, and mutual respect among individuals. Its significance extends across various aspects of social interaction and community well-being:

• Promotes Social Cohesion: Kindness cultivates a sense of community, belonging, and connectedness. When individuals practice kindness towards one another, it strengthens bonds and fosters a supportive environment where people feel valued and understood.
• Reduces Conflict and Hostility: In a world often marred by discord and division, acts of kindness are antidotes to hatred and aggression. By approaching differences with empathy and compassion, individuals can defuse tensions and build bridges of understanding.
• Enhances Mental Health: Research indicates that performing acts of kindness helps reduce stress, anxiety, and depression while fostering enjoyment and fulfilment for both the giver and the receiver, intrinsically linking kindness to psychological well-being.
• Fosters Empathy and Compassion: Experiencing kindness first-hand cultivates empathy by allowing individuals to understand and appreciate the perspectives and struggles of others. This, in turn, promotes a culture of compassion where people are motivated to help those in need.
• Inspires Positive Change: Kindness has a ripple effect beyond individual interactions. When one person extends kindness to another, it often inspires a chain reaction of generosity and goodwill, leading to transformative societal change.
• Builds Trust and Cooperation: Trust is the foundation of any successful society, and kindness plays a pivotal role in its cultivation. When individuals consistently demonstrate kindness and integrity, it fosters trust among members of society and encourages collaboration toward common goals.
• Creates a Culture of Gratitude: Acts of kindness remind individuals to appreciate the blessings in their lives and express gratitude for the support and kindness they receive. This attitude of gratitude contributes to a more optimistic outlook on life.

Acts of Kindness

Acts of kindness are the lifeblood of compassion, the heartbeat of humanity, and the cornerstone of a thriving society. They are the tangible manifestations of empathy and goodwill, transcending cultural, social, and economic divides. Here, we delve into the myriad forms of kindness that illuminate our world:

• Simple Gestures of Kindness: From holding the door open for a stranger to offering a genuine smile to someone in need, simple acts of kindness can brighten someone’s day and uplift spirits.
• Helping Hand in Times of Need: Whether lending a helping hand to a neighbour moving into a new home or supporting a friend going through a challenging period, offering assistance during times of need exemplifies the essence of compassion.
• Random Acts of Kindness: Performing random acts of kindness, such as paying for someone’s meal or leaving uplifting notes in public spaces, can have a lasting positive impact on both the giver and the receiver.
• Listening with Empathy: Sometimes, the greatest act of kindness is simply being present and listening with empathy to someone’s joys, sorrows, and struggles. Offering a compassionate ear without judgment can provide solace and validation to those in distress.
• Volunteerism and Community Service: Engaging in volunteer activities and community service initiatives allows individuals to contribute to the well-being of their communities and make a tangible difference in the lives of others.
• Acts of Environmental Kindness: Caring for the environment and practicing sustainable habits, such as recycling, conserving energy, and participating in eco-friendly initiatives, demonstrate kindness towards future generations and the planet we call home.
• Promoting Inclusivity and Diversity: Acts of kindness also involve advocating for inclusivity, diversity, and social justice. Standing up against discrimination, prejudice, and injustice fosters a culture of acceptance, equality, and respect for all individuals.
• Supporting Mental Health and Well-being: Showing kindness towards individuals struggling with mental health challenges involves offering support, understanding, and resources to help them navigate their journey towards healing and recovery.

Benefits of Kindness

Kindness is a virtue and a powerful force that enriches both the giver and the receiver. Beyond its immediate impact on individuals, kindness yields myriad benefits that ripple through society, fostering a culture of compassion and connection. Here are some of the profound benefits of practicing kindness:

• Enhanced Mental Health: Engaging in acts of kindness has boosted mental well-being by reducing stress, anxiety, and depression. Giving activates areas of the brain associated with pleasure and reward, leading to fulfilment and happiness.
• Improved Physical Health: Kindness is not only beneficial for the mind but also for the body. Based on research findings, engaging in acts of kindness has been shown to decrease blood pressure, boost the immune system, and alleviate inflammation, ultimately contributing to enhanced physical well-being and resilience.
• Strengthened Relationships: Kindness forms the foundation of meaningful relationships, fostering trust, empathy, and mutual respect. When individuals consistently demonstrate kindness towards one another, it deepens bonds and creates a supportive network of friends, family, and community.
• Increased Empathy and Compassion: Kindness promotes empathy by encouraging people to consider the views and emotions of others. This heightened sense of empathy leads to a greater understanding of diverse experiences and fosters a culture of compassion and inclusivity.
• Promotion of Positive Behaviour: Kindness is contagious, inspiring others to pay it forward and engage in altruistic acts themselves. The ripple effect of kindness creates a positive feedback loop, where small gestures of goodwill lead to larger-scale acts of generosity and community involvement.
• Enhanced Self-esteem and Purpose: Knowing that one has made a positive impact on the lives of others boosts self-esteem and in-stills a sense of purpose and fulfilment. Acts of kindness reaffirm one’s value and contribution to society, fostering a greater sense of self-worth and belonging.
• Reduction of Social Isolation: Kindness bridges social divides and reduces feelings of loneliness and isolation. Individuals form meaningful connections and create a sense of belonging within their communities by reaching out to others with empathy and compassion.
• Cultivation of a Positive Culture: Kindness shapes the culture of organizations, schools, and communities, fostering an environment where cooperation, collaboration, and respect thrive. A culture of kindness promotes creativity, productivity, and innovation, leading to greater collective achievement and success.

Challenges and Obstacles to Kindness

While kindness is fundamental to human nature, various challenges and obstacles can hinder its expression and cultivation. Understanding and eliminating these hurdles is critical for creating an environment of understanding, compassion, and connection. Here are some of the key challenges and obstacles to kindness:

• Empathy Fatigue and Compassion Burnout: Continuous exposure to suffering and hardship can lead to empathy fatigue, where individuals become emotionally drained and overwhelmed by the needs of others. Compassion burnout occurs when caregivers and helpers experience physical, emotional, and psychological exhaustion from providing care and support to others without adequate self-care.
• Social Barriers and Stereotypes: Social barriers, such as prejudice, discrimination, and stereotypes, can create divisions and inhibit kindness towards certain groups or individuals. Preconceived notions based on race, gender, religion, or socioeconomic status can lead to bias and discrimination, hindering genuine empathy and compassion.
• Overcoming Personal Biases: Individuals may struggle to extend kindness towards others due to personal biases, including implicit biases formed by societal influences and experiences. Overcoming these biases requires self-awareness, introspection, and a willingness to challenge and unlearn harmful beliefs and attitudes.
• Fear of Rejection or Misinterpretation: Fear of rejection or misinterpretation can prevent individuals from reaching out and offering support to others. Concerns about how kindness may be perceived or whether it will be reciprocated can cause hesitancy and reluctance to extend compassion and assistance.
• Cultural Norms and Expectations: Cultural norms and expectations may dictate certain behaviors and attitudes, prioritizing individualism over collective well-being. In cultures where self-reliance is valued, individuals may hesitate to seek or offer help, fearing dependence or loss of autonomy.
• Lack of Resources and Support: Limited resources and support systems can impede individuals’ ability to practice kindness towards others, particularly in communities facing economic hardship or social inequality. Access to essential resources and support networks is necessary for individuals to meet their needs and extend kindness to others.
• Mental Health Challenges: Individuals grappling with mental health issues, such as anxiety, depression, or trauma, may find it challenging to engage in acts of kindness due to their emotional struggles and limitations. Prioritizing self-care and seeking professional support is essential for overcoming these barriers and fostering compassion towards oneself and others.
• Cynicism and Disillusionment: Cynicism and disillusionment with society or human nature can lead individuals to adopt a pessimistic outlook and distrust towards others. Overcoming cynicism requires cultivating hope, resilience, and a belief in the inherent goodness of humanity.

Case Studies

Case studies offer valuable insights into the transformative power of kindness in real-life situations. Here are two compelling examples that highlight the profound impact of kindness:

1. The Power of Compassionate Listening

Case Study: Sarah, a high school student, noticed that her classmate, Emily, had been withdrawn and seemed distressed lately. Instead of ignoring the situation or assuming it wasn’t her concern, Sarah approached Emily with kindness and empathy. She invited Emily to lunch and genuinely listened as she shared her struggles with bullying and academic pressure. Sarah offered encouragement, reassurance, and support, letting Emily know she wasn’t alone.

Impact: Sarah’s act of compassionate listening had a profound impact on Emily. Feeling heard and understood, Emily opened up about her challenges and found solace in Sarah’s friendship. Sarah’s kindness alleviated Emily’s feelings of isolation and inspired her to seek help and support from trusted adults. Their friendship blossomed, creating a supportive network that empowered Emily to navigate her difficulties with resilience and courage.

2. Building Bridges Through Random Acts of Kindness

Case Study: In a bustling city, a stranger named David noticed a homeless woman sitting alone on a street corner, holding a sign that read, “Hungry and Cold.” Instead of walking by indifferently like many others, David felt compelled to act. He approached the woman and offered her a warm meal from a nearby restaurant, a blanket, and a kind word of encouragement. Despite her initial scepticism, the woman accepted David’s gesture with gratitude and tears in her eyes.

Impact: David’s random act of kindness provided immediate relief to the homeless woman’s physical needs and restored her faith in humanity. Feeling seen and valued, she experienced a renewed sense of hope and dignity. Inspired by David’s kindness, the woman sought assistance from local shelters and social services to improve her situation. David’s simple act of compassion transformed the women’s day and sparked a ripple effect of generosity and kindness in their community.

3. Kindness in Corporate Culture

Case Study: A manager noticed low employee morale and team cohesion in a corporate workplace. Instead of focusing solely on productivity and performance metrics, the manager implemented initiatives to promote a culture of kindness and appreciation. This included recognizing employees’ achievements, organizing team-building activities, and fostering open communication and collaboration.

Impact: This case demonstrates how acts of kindness and appreciation can transform corporate culture, increasing employee satisfaction, engagement, and productivity. By prioritizing empathy, recognition, and support within the workplace, the manager cultivated a positive work environment where employees felt valued, motivated, and connected to their colleagues and the company mission.

4. Promoting Inclusivity in Education:

Case Study: In a school setting, a teacher noticed that a student, Sarah, struggled to make friends and participate in classroom activities due to her social anxiety. Rather than singling her out or ignoring her struggles, the teacher took proactive steps to create a supportive and inclusive environment. She paired Sarah with a peer mentor, implemented group activities encouraging collaboration and communication, and provided regular encouragement and positive reinforcement.

Impact: This case exemplifies how acts of kindness and inclusivity can positively impact students’ social and emotional well-being in an educational setting. By recognizing and addressing Sarah’s social anxiety with empathy and support, the teacher helped improve her academic performance and fostered a sense of belonging and acceptance within the classroom community.

Cultivating Kindness in Communities

Building a culture of kindness within communities requires intentional effort and collective commitment to nurturing empathy, compassion, and inclusivity. Here are strategies for cultivating kindness in communities:

• Educational Initiatives: Implementing programs centred around kindness in schools and community centres is essential to teach children and adults empathy, compassion, and inclusivity.
• Promoting Empathy and Emotional Intelligence: Offering workshops, seminars, and training sessions that provide individuals with the tools and skills to enhance their empathy, emotional intelligence, and interpersonal communication.
• Creating Supportive Environments: Creating safe and welcoming spaces where people feel valued, respected, and supported as they communicate their views, feelings, and experiences without fear of being judged or discriminated against.
• Fostering Intergenerational Connections: Intergenerational activities and events promote mutual respect and a sense of belonging by promoting interaction and understanding between various age groups.
• Encouraging Volunteerism and Community Service: Organizing volunteer opportunities and service initiatives that enable individuals to contribute to their communities’ well-being while positively impacting others’ lives.
• Celebrating Diversity and Inclusivity: Hosting cultural events, festivals, and gatherings that celebrate the rich diversity of community members’ backgrounds, traditions, and identities, fostering a sense of unity and appreciation for differences.
• Promoting Acts of Kindness: Launching campaigns or initiatives that encourage individuals to engage in random acts of kindness, such as paying it forward, volunteering, or performing small acts of generosity and compassion in their daily lives.
• Building Strong Social Networks: Facilitating networking opportunities and social gatherings that enable individuals to connect with like-minded individuals, build supportive relationships, and foster community and belonging.

Ripple Effect of Kindness

• Inspiring Others through Acts of Kindness: When others see acts of kindness, they are often encouraged to pay it forward, causing a chain reaction of generosity and compassion far beyond the initial gift.
• Building Stronger Relationships: Acts of kindness strengthen bonds between individuals and foster a sense of trust, empathy, and mutual respect, leading to deeper and more meaningful connections within families, friendships, and communities.
• Creating Positive Change in Society: Cumulative small acts of kindness can promote empathy, inclusivity, and social responsibility, leading to a more equitable and compassionate world.
• Enhancing Mental Well-being: Neurotransmitters like oxytocin and dopamine are released when acts of kindness are performed, resulting in emotions of contentment, satisfaction, and belonging for both the donor and the receiver.
• Promoting Health and Wellness: Kindness has been linked to improved physical health, as individuals who engage in acts of kindness experience lower levels of stress, reduced blood pressure, and enhanced immune function, contributing to overall well-being and longevity.
• Fostering a Culture of Generosity: By normalizing acts of kindness and generosity, communities create a culture where helping others is encouraged and celebrated, leading to a collective mindset of cooperation, altruism, and social cohesion.
• Sparking Positive Chain Reactions: A small act of kindness can set off a ripple effect of goodwill, inspiring others to spread positivity and create an ever-growing network of positive impact.
• Bringing Hope and Comfort: In times of adversity or crisis, acts of kindness provide solace, support, and hope to those in need, demonstrating the resilience and compassion of humanity even in the face of challenges.

Kindness is a virtue and a transformative force that enriches individuals and communities. It fosters empathy, strengthens relationships, and promotes a culture of compassion and inclusion. From small acts of generosity to more significant gestures of solidarity, kindness can inspire positive change and create a ripple effect of goodwill that transcends boundaries and brings people together. As we navigate the complexities of life, let us embrace kindness as a guiding principle, recognizing its ability to uplift spirits, foster resilience, and cultivate a more compassionate and harmonious world for generations to come.

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Definition essay on Kindness

This essay discusses the concept of kindness in detail and how this phenomenon can be seen in philosophy, religion and literature. Kindness is often regarded as the highest virtue and with good reason.

Kindness can be the compassion one feels for the troubled, the love one has for mankind in general, the concern one shows for those in need and the sympathy one harbors for those in hard times. It is safe to say that Kindness is also a form of worship and an important part of major world religions as well. It is not just an attribute but is a state of constant behavior in some people who wish to spread joy among others – a kind of happiness that knows no boundaries and is as limitless as it is universal. It can be in the form of small acts of everyday life. It is the kindness that makes anyone feel human and sets mankind apart from the rest of the species.

Defining Kindness

As Mark Twain likes to put it, kindness is the language spoken by the dumb, heard by the deaf and seen by the blind. It can be a smile in passing, a mild disposition, charitable behavior, tenderness, pleasantness or concern and compassion for others. Its importance and paramount position are prominent in many cultures and religions of the world.

Kindness in Philosophy

Rhetoric, Book II by Aristotle declares kindness to be an emotion that drives mankind to extend help to those in need without expecting anything in return. Such an act is born out of nature and is never intended for the benefit of self and is only focused for the good of others. Friedrich Nietzsche also made a point that love and kindness are two of the most curative herbs, which also play an uncanny role in inducing human intercourse. Then again, it goes without saying that kindness is indeed one of the Knightly Virtues. Kindness in Religion

According to Bible, Kindness is considered as one of the seven virtues or more specifically, it is the opposite of Envy – one of the Seven Deadly Sins and is, therefore, a Contrary Virtue. Talmud, a sacred Jew scripture also lays immense significance on kindness by claiming that kind deeds are equal to all the commandments in weight. In Buddhism, Metta (loving kindness) is one of the Paramitas (Ten Perfections). Similarly, the 14th Dalai Lama declared his religion to be kindness when he penned the book, “Kindness, Clarity and Insight”.

Kindness In Psychology

A study was conducted which included more than 37 cultures of the world and around 16000 subjects were asked to mention the most desirable trait that they wish to see in a mate. Regardless of the gender, the first trait was kindness, and the second preference was given to intelligence. History of Kindness All the ancient civilizations such as the ancient Chinese, the Aryans and famous Greeks emphasized the importance of kindness. Many sacred religious scriptures also consist of kindness as their central theme.

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Essays on Kindness

Kindness essay strives to answer many questions: “What is kindness?”, “What makes a kind person?”. Many essay-writers believe that kindness is a trait that encourages a person to do good things. That is, a kind person sincerely wants to help people, benefit others, reach out in a time of difficulty, and provide support to those who need it. Most kindness essays seem to follow a similar approach. It is debated whether people are born good if some people are inherently bad. Essays on kindness help us believe the former, because when we consider children we can see that they are kind and virtuous, so it's conditions of life that can rob people of their kindness. Kindness essay samples teach us that kindness is a trait we must all work on. Read some of our samples of kindness essays below to learn more! Kindness essay strives to answer many questions: “What is kindness?”, “What makes a kind person?”. Many essay-writers believe that kindness is a trait that encourages a person to do good things. That is, a kind person sincerely wants to help people, benefit others, reach out in a time of difficulty, and provide support to those who need it. Most kindness essays seem to follow a similar approach. It is debated whether people are born good if some people are inherently bad. Essays on kindness help us believe the former, because when we consider children we can see that they are kind and virtuous, so it's conditions of life that can rob people of their kindness. Kindness essay samples teach us that kindness is a trait we must all work on. Read some of our samples of kindness essays below to learn more!

Kindness: A Rare Quality in Modern Days Kindness is a quality that is hardly found in these modern days. People tend to overlook the needs and desires of others since they are so busy gratifying their own needs and desires. Kindness is the act of being pleasant and considerate to people...

In most situations, kindness is characterized as unconditional acceptance, a lack of judgment, or doing things that make other people happier. This description, though, is inadequate since it only defines a portion of what kindness entails. Kindness encompasses many aspects; as such, it means treating everyone the way you would like to...

Identity is a special and complicated character of an organism that is usually affected by a variety of influences as one develops and moves from one goal to another, and ambition to aspiration. What distinguishes one's personality is mainly one's history, memories, and family, among other things. In an ideal...

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In my culture, the wisdom for a growing child is to be noble and supportive In my culture, the wisdom for a growing child is to be noble and supportive when interacting with others in society, regardless of whether they are peers, families, or outsiders. An example that is often used...

Kindness Kindness is described as human conduct characterized by a friendly temperament, ethical traits, numerous displays of interest, and the act of considering other people around a person. Notably, compassion is regarded as a virtue, a value, or both in a variety of religions and cultures. Furthermore, kindness can be described...

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Home — Essay Samples — Life — Kindness — Acts of Kindness: Importance of Being Kind

Acts of Kindness: Importance of Being Kind

• Categories: Empathy Humanity Kindness

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Words: 792 |

Updated: 30 November, 2023

Words: 792 | Pages: 2 | 4 min read

Works Cited:

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• Hemphill, M. A. (1996). A note on adults' color-emotion associations. Journal of Genetic Psychology, 157(3), 275-280.
• Jacobs, K. W., & Hustmyer Jr, F. E. (1974). Effects of four psychological primary colors on GSR, heart rate and respiration rate. Perceptual and Motor Skills, 38(3), 763-766.
• Johnson, K. K., & Lennon, S. J. (2015). The role of color in marketing. Journal of Business Research, 68(2), 243-249.
• Kuehni, R. G. (2013). Color: An introduction to practice and principles (3rd ed.). John Wiley & Sons.
• Morton, J. L., & Johnson, M. H. (2011). Consistency of color emotion. Color Research & Application, 36(1), 41-52.
• Palmer, S. E., & Schloss, K. B. (2010). An ecological valence theory of human color preference. Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences, 107(19), 8877-8882.
• Smith, K. C., & Crenshaw, S. (2019). Color theory: An essential guide to color-from basic principles to practical applications. Rockport Publishers.
• Valdez, P., & Mehrabian, A. (1994). Effects of color on emotions. Journal of Experimental Psychology: General, 123(4), 394-409.

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Essay On Kindness – 10 Lines, Short And Long Essay For Children

Key Points To Note: Essay On Kindness For Lower Primary Classes

10 lines on kindness for kids, a paragraph on kindness, short essay on ‘importance of kindness’ in english for children, long essay on kindness for kids, what will your child learn from the kindness essay.

Children should possess the virtue of kindness from an early age. Therefore, an essay on kindness in English for classes 1, 2 & 3 is prominent in their coursework. Parents and teachers strive to teach young kids the value of being kind in numerous ways. Kind kids are polite, considerate, compassionate, generous, and loved by all. They make people around them happy through their actions, thoughts, and words. Kind people are admired and appreciated by everyone around them. However, not all kids have this virtue in-built in them. For most, it needs to be taught and shown for understanding. So, an essay on kindness is the best way to teach kids the importance of this great asset of life.

Lower primary kids may wonder how to write an essay on kindness. Here are some key points they can remember when writing an essay on kindness to help them:

• Explain what kindness is.
• Write why it is important to be kind.
• Write a few points on how to be kind.
• Briefly conclude with why everyone should be kind.

Essay writing on subjects like kindness enhances the understanding of the topic and teaches sentence structure formation to kids. Here are a few lines on kindness for kids. This will be helpful for class 1 and 2 kids to write an essay on kindness:

• Kindness is an admirable virtue.
• To be kind, we must be good to people around us.
• Very few people have this quality, but it can be attained with the right guidance.
• Kind people are caring, polite, and generous.
• They always help other people with their problems.
• Kind people offer support and are always there for each other.
• Not only to just other people, but we should also be kind to animals.
• Kind people never hurt anyone.
• To be kind, one needs to be caring and good at heart.
• Kindness motivates people and makes them happy.

The virtue of kindness can be best taught through an essay to young kids. Writing short paragraphs will also help them in short sentence construction. Here is a short paragraph on kindness for their reference:

Kind people are always thought of as good people. Being kind means a person is caring, polite, and good to people around them. Many people in this world lack this virtue and want to hurt each other. Kindness should be the first base of character building in any person. Kind people don’t hurt others. They understand and value each other’s feelings and emotions. Providing support and helping people in their troubles are some highlights of kind people. One needs to be caring, supportive, compassionate, and helpful to be kind. Kindness makes people happy and the world a better place. Everyone admires compassionate and kind people.

Writing a kindness essay for classes 1, 2 and 3 students is a great way to teach them about being kind. Here is a short essay on the importance of kindness for children:

Kindness, in simple words, means to be good and compassionate to people around us. We can be kind by speaking politely, being supportive, helping people, and motivating them. Kind words or actions are enough to make someone happy. When someone goes through a problem, just words of kindness can make them hopeful. No big gesture is required. Kind deeds not only help others but also make us happy. When we help others, care for them or be good to them, we too feel happy. We also feel nice when others talk to us politely or care for us. To be human is to be kind. However, kind people are rare. However, the world is full of bad people and bad things. To make the world a better place, we all need to care about other people, animals, and nature.

Students of class 3 can be asked to write a long essay on various topics as it helps them broaden their thought process and long sentence construction ability. Here is a long essay on kindness for class 3 students, and this will explain to them the meaning and the importance of being kind.

We are taught from childhood to be good to others. Our parents and teachers all talk about how good things happen to good people. They tell us everyone loves a good person, and they also emphasise that the most important quality of a good person is kindness. Kindness is the basic characteristic of being human. Let us understand in detail what kindness is and its importance in our lives.

What Is Kindness?

Kindness can be simply described as being caring, compassionate, polite, and thoughtful. Being kind means having love, concern, tenderness, and respect for others. Kind people support other when they have a problem and don’t hurt anyone, whether a person, animal, or plant. Kindness means being a good person who respects and cares for everyone.

Importance Of Kindness

Kindness is an important virtue. To be a good human, we have to be a kind person first. One cannot be a good person without being kind. Kindness is important to make this world and our society better. Even for our growth, kindness is important. We help each other because we care for each other. It is our kindness that makes us compassionate towards our family, friends, and strangers too. Being kind is important to nurture our environment too. We can care for nature and animals only when we are kind. In this fast-paced world, most people only think about their well-being. That makes them selfish or bad towards others. Therefore, kindness is crucial to ensure the world retains its humanity. When we do a kind deed for someone, say some encouraging words or care for them, they feel good. Then when they see someone in trouble, they do the same for them. Thus, a chain of good deeds is formed. This brings a positive change to people and the world. So, kindness is important to make the world a better place for us and our coming generations.

How Can You Be Kind To Others?

We all are kind to our families as we love them. But for others, we find it difficult to be kind. To be kind to others, we don’t have to do much. We just need to be genuinely good to them. Kindness doesn’t require us to spend money on others. We just need to be caring, polite, and compassionate. Saying a few encouraging words, caring for them in trouble, helping them, and not hurting others are essential traits of a kind person.

Kindness is a fundamental quality that maintains the balance in the world and makes it a beautiful place to live.

Children learn things better when they are involved in them. So, to teach kindness and its importance to kids, reading and writing essays is a great method. When they read or write essays on kindness, they understand what kindness is and what is needed to be kind. Kids learn the value of being empathetic and polite to be good humans. This exercise will also help kids’ behavioural development and make them understand the importance of having good conduct in society. Kindness is not just being good to our near ones but also towards plants and animals. Kids learn to be polite, caring, and respectful towards everyone through the kindness essay.

Some FAQs on kindness:

What’s The Difference Between Kind And Nice?

Kids often get confused between being kind and nice. Being kind means being caring, polite, respectful, and compassionate. Whereas being nice means one is polite in their speaking or is pleasing. They may or may not be caring and compassionate.

Kids should be taught to be kind from their early years. Essays on kindness are a great way to teach them the significance of being kind.

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Essay on Kindness for Children and Students

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Essay on Kindness: Kindness is a virtue that is rarely found these days. People these days are so busy gratifying their own needs and desires that they overlook that of the others. Being kind to others is out of question for most.

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Kindness is the quality of being polite and considerate towards others. It is a quality that not everyone possesses. Very few people in this world are blessed with this quality and their presence is a blessing for those around them. Here are essays on Kindness of varying lengths to help you with it in your exam. You can select any Kindness essay given below as per your need:

Long and Short Essay on Kindness in English

Kindness essay 1 (200 words).

Kindness simply means being good to people around us. It can be done by being polite to them, offering them emotional support, helping them financially, boosting their morale or by simply being supportive to them. Kind words and kind deeds done by us are not only a boon for the recipient but are also a blessing to us. When we help others with their tasks, are polite to them and do other such acts of kindness it gives us a sense of accomplishment and joy.

Kindness has been described differently in different religious books and literature in the past. However, they all echo the same thought. All of them advocate that human beings must show kindness to other human beings as well as other creatures. We must be polite, friendly and helpful. While we should exhibit kindness we must not do it with the aim of getting anything in return. Kindness is a selfless act.

If God has been kind enough to give us the things we need we must be kind to others and render help in whatever way we can. As Lord Buddha said, “A generous heart, kind speech and a life of service and compassion are the things that renew humanity”.

Kindness Essay 2 (300 words)

Introduction

A person with a pleasant disposition and a concern for others is said to be kind. Such people are empathetic towards others. They help those around them whenever there is a need and never hesitate to go out of their way to bring a smile on other people’s face.

Small Acts of Kindness can Make Big Difference

Showing kindness towards others does not necessarily mean doing something big for them. It can be something as small as being polite and offering emotional support to someone. It can be something as tiny as passing a smile to the old lady who sits all alone in her balcony watching people go by or giving a small bite of your bread to the sparrow that tweets on your terrace every day. Such acts of kindness don’t take much but can make a big difference in the other person’s life.

You don’t have to be a millionaire to offer help and be nice to people around. You just need to have a good heart. Each one of us has something to give to the world. We just need to recognize what it is. Besides, we need to understand the need to be kind to people around us. We need to understand that the world would become a much better place if people are kind to each other.

By being kind to the other people we do not only help them and light a smile on their face but also feel good at a deeper level. It gives a sense of satisfaction.

We can rarely find kind people around. In fact, if we look at it, are we kind ourselves? We may feel the pain of people around us but how many times have we lend a helping hand towards them? If we expect others to be kind towards us, we must first inculcate this habit in ourselves.

Kindness Essay 3 (400 words)

It is rightly said, “You will never have a completely bad day if you show kindness at least once”. Being kind and compassionate towards others brings immense joy. The joy of giving is much greater than that of receiving. Kindness gets us closer to God and renders inner peace.

Acts of Kindness Never Go Unnoticed

While we must indulge in acts of kindness selflessly without expecting anything in return, however it is said that no act of kindness, even the smallest one, goes unnoticed. This is because God is watching us at all times. And he is known for being fair in his ways.

Being kind in general by being polite with others keeps us in a good mood as compared to the times when we get into arguments, or judge others or raise our voice. Similarly, offering even a small help to someone makes us feel good about ourselves. Helping others and being kind to them gives us an immediate sense of satisfaction. And whatever we give comes back to us in abundance. This is also known as the law of Karma.

However, if we show kindness to others hoping that we will get something in return then it is not considered an act of kindness. It is rather an act of selfishness.

Kindness towards Animals

Not just with human beings, we must also be kind towards animals. Many people throw stones at the street dogs and cows to scare them away. It is alright if done as an act of self dense however many people do it just for fun. We must rather be kind towards them. Treating the animals appropriately and feeding them are two of the ways to show kindness towards them. We waste a lot of food ever now. We throw our leftover food in the dustbin. Instead of throwing it away like that, we must take out some time to feed cats, dogs and cows roaming around near our house with it. We can also show kindness towards them by adopting them. Likewise, we can feed the birds by hanging bird feeders in our lawn or balcony. These small and random acts of kindness will not only do good to these birds and animals but will also make you feel better about yourself.

People who indulge in charity work and help other people with various big and small tasks are happier than those who only work for themselves.

Kindness Essay 4 (500 words)

In many cultures kindness is considered to be an essential virtue. It is said to be among the seven essential virtues that the moral intelligence consists of. The other virtues include conscience, respect, tolerance, self-control, fairness and empathy. Being kind means being polite and friendly and helping those around us.

Kindness is an Uncommon Trait

Though essential, kindness is not a trait that is found commonly in people these days. In today’s times people have become extremely self-absorbed. All they can think about is themselves. The growing competition at various stages in our life is one of the main reasons why people are turning out to be this way. Everyone around is busy making themselves better and showing the world as to how better their life is compared to that of others. They do not hesitate hurting those in their way to achieve what they want. While there is nothing wrong with improvising oneself but one must understand that there is much more to life and it is not always just about them. People have become ungrateful and do not understand that God has been kind enough to them and they must in turn be kind towards others.

Now, while most people do not possess the trait of kindness, it can be embedded in them with little effort. This can be done by teaching its importance from the very beginning. Importance of kindness must be taught in school. Workshops must be conducted and lectures must be given to tell children as to why being kind to people is necessary. This subject must form an essential part of the curriculum in schools. It is essential to emphasize its importance repeatedly from the very beginning for people to understand and inculcate it.

Kindness is Essential in Relationships

What is the most common trait that people look for in a relationship? It is nothing else but kindness. Nobody likes to befriend people who are rude, arrogant, selfish and haughty. Everyone likes those who are polite, soft-hearted, kind and generous. We must be kind to those around but as it is said charity begins at home so we must start with our near and dear ones.

Many people are kind and polite to their neighbours, friends and colleagues but are rude with their immediate family members such as their wife, parents, children and siblings. They scold them, do not pay much attention towards them and often indulge in arguments with them. Such people cannot be called kind no matter how nice they are with people outside or the amount of charity they do. If they are not kind at home, they are merely donning a facade to maintain a good image outside. In reality, they are frustrated inside and all their frustration comes out at home.

If a person is really kind at heart, he will be equally kind at home as well as outside. Being kind to people without expecting anything in return renders inner peace and happiness. It makes life sweeter.

Practicing kindness is not difficult. Showering kindness on those around us should be the ultimate goal of each one of us. Try it and see how it can be one of the most joyful experiences in life.

Kindness Essay 5 (600 words)

A person who is kind is said to bear a good moral character. He is loved and talked highly about by people around. However, this should not be the reason to indulge in acts of kindness. Kindness is something that must be done selflessly. If we expect people to appreciate us or return the favour then it is not kindness, it is selfishness. It clearly indicates that we are doing it with a selfish motif.

Different Definitions of Kindness

Different learned people and religious scriptures have defined kindness differently in the past. As per Chinese teacher and philosopher, Confucius, “Of neighbourhoods, kindness is the most beautiful. How can the man be considered wise who when he had the choice does not settle in kindness”. He urges to “recompense kindness with kindness.”

As per ancient Greek philosopher and scientist, Aristotle, kindness means “helpfulness towards someone in need, not in return for anything, nor for the advantage of the helper himself, but for that of the person helped”. As per American writer and humorist, Mark Twain, “Kindness is the language which the dumb can speak, the deaf can hear & the blind can see.” As per Talmud, the central text of Rabbinic Judaism, “deeds of kindness are equal in weight to all the commandments.”

“I expect to pass through life but once. If therefore, there be any kindness I can show, or any good thing I can do to any fellow being, let me do it now, and not defer or neglect it, as I shall not pass this way again”, said the American philosopher, William Penn.

The definitions of kindness may differ but the essence of all these is the same. Kindness is referred to as an essential virtue.

God Has Been Kind to You; You Must Be Kind to Others

If God has been kind enough to give you a good life, you must be kind enough to help those around you build a good life too. This is to say that if you earn well then give a small amount of your earnings in charity. If you are good in studies then do not hesitate to help your fellow students if they come to you for any kind of assistance. If God has made you physically-abled then help those who aren’t. For instance, you can help a blind person cross the road or carry the grocery bag home for the old lady who lives in your neighbourhood. If you have enough space in your balcony or garden then hang bird feeder and keep a bowl of water filled for the birds. Donate your old clothes and shoes to the poor and needy. There are so many poor kids who roam around without shoes and clothes. A number of NGOs request people to help them serve such people. Even a small contribution from your side can make a difference. Likewise, do not waste food. Give the leftover food to those who need it instead of showing it the dustbin.

If you can take out some time from your schedule then get involved in social service. You can begin by providing basic education to the poor little children around your house who cannot afford to study in the school.

These are small examples of how you can spread kindness. Imagine if each one of us inculcates this quality and is kind to everyone around, this world will become a much better place to live.

People must be kind to those around them and see how things change for good. Being kind to others, helping them and spreading smiles does not only do good to the recipients but also offers a deep sense of satisfaction to the one who indulges in the act.

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Kindness Essay

Kindness essay is a reflection on the idea of kindness, which is an act of selflessness. Because kindness doesn’t come with the expectation of receiving anything in return, it is a great way to show your appreciation for what you have received in life.

Kindness is always an excellent choice to make in any situation. When someone feels bad or down, the kindness shown can make a person feel more supported and loved. It is an action that anyone can do.

Importance of Kindness Essay

Kindness is a simple yet powerful gesture. It can positively impact someone’s life, and the ripple effect is just as powerful. In the academic community, kindness is thought to be an attitude that influences achievement among people.

Kindness is a form of love and compassion and one that needs to spread throughout the world. It allows people to see the best in others, encouraging them to be their best selves. Allowing kindness to exist for those around us is beneficial for them and ourselves.

It is our responsibility as human beings to be kind to other people. We can be considerate and compassionate towards other people to live in peace and love. Kindness is a virtue, and it is one of the essential things in life. It shows other people that you care about them and takes away some of the pain and suffering that they may be feeling. It can also help heal others, and everyone should always try to think about how their actions will affect others before taking them.

Kindness is vital in every single person’s life. It makes the world a better place and can make someone feel loved. With the help of kindness, you can start your good deeds to make the world a better place.

You can find more essays similar to the kindness essay on BYJU’S website. Also, explore a wide range of exciting kids’ learning resources on the website.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is kindness.

Kindness is a simple gesture that can positively impact someone’s life. It also helps people be compassionate and considerate towards others.

Why is kindness important?

Kindness is important because it is our responsibility to be kind to others. This helps people to live in peace and love. As a virtue, kindness is one of the essential things in life. It helps us be empathetic towards people and extend our hands to support them.

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101 famous authors and greatest writers of all time.

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Illustration of William Shakespeare.

Writers have always had the ability to shift paradigms, define eras and impact a broader society with their craft. From the philosophical musings of Plato, particularly those featuring Socrates’ thoughtful dialogues, to the classic wisdom of Aesop, who influenced fables and storytelling for generations, the art of writing has the unique power to outlive time and space, impacting readers across generations and geographies. Thanks to the masterminds putting ink to paper to tell some of the most powerful stories of human time, we are able to see the world with new eyes and find perspective and solace in our shared human experiences. In this list, I have compiled the works of the 101 greatest authors and writers of all time, celebrating their unique contributions to literature and their mastery of the written word. This list was compiled with the assistance of several librarians at Herrick Library in Holland, Michigan. A fun fact is that Holland, Michigan, partly inspired Lyman Frank Baum’s The Wizard of Oz .

Top Authors

The authors on this list represent a variety of time periods, capturing the evolution of storytelling and its form, from ancient to modern times. This list does not just cover fictional characters and experiences; it points to the insight of these wordsmiths, whose ideas have traveled through time and continue to challenge, disrupt and reform. Although this list spans millennia of written history, including ancient figures like Homer, classical authors like Virgil and Renaissance luminaries like William Shakespeare, modern fan-favorites like J.K. Rowling and Stephen King also made the list. Whether you are a fan of poetry, mystery, horror, romantic fiction, memoirs or autobiographies, there is a writer for every type of reader on this list of the 101 greatest authors of all time.

101. John Grisham (1955- )

John Grisham in Torino, Italy, May 2007.

American writer John Grisham is an Arkansas-born author best known for transposing his legal knowledge into written form. Before his writing career took off, Grisham practiced law for nearly a decade, specializing in criminal defense and personal injury litigation, which gave him real-life experiences that would later inform the legal axioms in his written work. His pivot from a small-town lawyer to one of the world’s most popular novelists is as fascinating as the plots of his legal thrillers, but did not come without persistence. Grisham’s first novel, A Time to Kill was inspired by a real case he witnessed in a Mississippi courtroom and it would become a moment that would be a turning point in his career. The novel examined the racial tensions and justice in the American South and also analyzed themes of revenge, morality and the complex nature of the justice system. Although A Time to Kill was rejected by 28 publishers, Grisham persisted in writing and that grit paid off, leading to a well-respected career that has redefined the genre of legal fiction. Among Grisham’s most influential works are The Firm; The Pelican Brief, a political-legal thriller involving the murders of two Supreme Court justices; and The Runaway Jury . Grisham’s works are available at Penguin Random House .

Famous Quote: “Critics should find meaningful work.” ― John Grisham

100. Danielle Steel (1947- )

After initial success, helldiver’s 2 has lost 90% of its players with no signs of recovery, dana white says former champion just had ‘his last fight’, new chrome security rules—google gives web users until 11/1 to comply.

Author Danielle Steel poses for a portrait in 1997 in Los Angeles.

Born in 1947 in New York City, Danielle Steel grew up between France and the United States, where she began writing short stories and poetry as a young girl. Although Steel attended New York University for Literature and Design, she began her writing career in the 1970s, and published her first novel, Going Home , in 1973. Shortly after, her novels quickly gained massive public interest. With over 800 million copies of her books sold, Steel’s writing is characterized by its romantic depth, vivid characterizations and complicated family relationships. Her most acclaimed novels like The Gift , Kaleidoscope and Sisters, often include themes of romance, passion, loss, resilience and redemption. Steel is one of the best-selling authors of all time and in 1989, she earned a Guinness World Record for having a book on The New York Times bestsellers list for 381 consecutive weeks. Despite her commercial success, many readers don’t know that Steel still writes with a manual typewriter, a practice she finds creatively fulfilling and grounding. Although her work primarily consists of novels, she has also written poetry and children’s books. Her books are available at Penguin Random House .

Famous quote : “No man can take your freedom from you. They can limit your mobility, but that's about all they can do.” ― Danielle Steel .

99. Sidney Sheldon (1917-2007)

Writer Sidney Sheldon poses for a photograph during a book signing for "The Sky Is Falling" at a ... [+] Barnes & Noble bookstore.

Sidney Sheldon was born in Chicago, but began his career in Hollywood, where he initially worked on scripts for B-movies and later moved on to Broadway musicals. Although Sheldon achieved massive success in Hollywood, winning an Academy Award for Best Original Screenplay for The Bachelor and the Bobby-Soxer in 1947​, the script would become just one of many success stories for Sheldon. He also attained success with numerous other successful films and television shows including The Patty Duke Show , I Dream of Jeannie and Hart to Hart . After a successful stint in show business, Sheldon started writing books in the 1960s and his first novel, The Naked Face , was published in 1970 and earned him a nomination for the prestigious Edgar Allan Poe Award for Best First Novel. His novels, often featuring ambitious female protagonists, are known for their suspenseful and dramatic storylines. Some of his most celebrated written works include The Other Side of Midnight , Master of the Game and If Tomorrow Comes . Sheldon is also the only writer to have won an Oscar, a Tony, and an Edgar in his lifetime. His works are available at HarperCollins Publishers .

Famous Quote: “Life is like a novel. It's filled with suspense. You have no idea what is going to happen until you turn the page.”― Sidney Sheldon .

98. Mary Augusta Ward (1851-1920)

Mrs Humphrey Ward (1851 - 1920) born Mary Augusta Arnold.

Mary Augusta Ward was a prominent British novelist and social activist whose pen name was Mrs. Humphry Ward. Her novel Robert Elsmere opened up a lot of public discussion about Christianity in Victorian society and all of its nuances. Ward was known for her deep reflection and engagement with contemporary social issues and even earned a nod of approval from Leo Toltsoy, who praised Ward for being the greatest English novelist of her time. Despite her success as a writer, Ward also advocated for education reform and founded the Passmore Edwards Settlement, a center that was founded to enrich the lives of working-class adults on evenings and weekends and to offer after-school recreation and instruction to poor children while their parents were still at work. Ward was also well-known for her stance against the Women's Suffrage Movement because she was concerned that emancipation would dilute the moral influence of women. This led her to establish the Anti-Suffrage League in 1908. The Australia-born novelist became a best-selling author and also achieved success with other books like D avid Grieve , Sir George Tressady and Helbeck of Bannisdale . Her works are available at The Kelmscott Book Shop .

Famous Quote: “Truth has never been, can never be, contained in any one creed or system.” — Mary Augusta Ward .

97. Dr. Seuss (1904-1991)

Children's book author/illustrator Theodor Seuss Geisel poses with models of some of the characters ... [+] he has created.

Theodor Seuss Geisel, also known as Dr. Seuss, was a La Jolla, California-born children’s author, humorist, political cartoonist and illustrator whose work has become the hallmark of children’s books. For years, his comical and highly imaginative books have created an opportunity for children to maintain their child-like wonder, while ushering an opportunity for them to experience real-life situations. Books like Oh,The Places You’ll Go!, The Cat in the Hat , Green Eggs and Ham and How the Grinch Stole Christma s! have become staples of children’s literature, establishing a permanence and formula that is impossible to duplicate. Dr. Seuss’s playful language and memorable characters have had a lasting impact on young readers and innovative use of alliteration, rhyme and rhythm has not only entertained children but also helped them develop early literacy skills. Dr. Seuss’s books are available at Penguin Random House .

Famous quote: “I like nonsense, it wakes up the brain cells. Fantasy is a necessary ingredient in living.”― Dr. Seuss .

96. Laura Ingalls Wilder (1867-1957)

Laura Ingalls Wilder autographing a book.

Laura Ingalls Wilder, born in Pepin, Wisconsin, was an American author best known for her Little House series of children’s books. These semi-autobiographical novels loosely mirrored her childhood growing up in a pioneer family, and offered a lucid portrayal of life on the American frontier in the late 19th century. At 15 years old, Wilder began to teach, and that ushered her into writing and editing years later. She started out writing for McCall’s Magazine and Country Gentleman and she later served as the poultry editor for the St. Louis Star before becoming a home editor for the Missouri Ruralist . In her fictional writing, Wilder’s simple, yet detailed and engaging storytelling has compelled readers for years, providing an intimate look at the simplicity, hardships and joys of pioneer life. Her timeless stories of adventure, family, and perseverance continue to inspire fans of her work and remind them of the values of courage, honesty and simplicity. Wilder also wrote essays, short stories, letters and poetry. Her works are available at HarperCollins Publishers .

Famous Quote: “I am beginning to learn that it is the sweet, simple things of life which are the real ones after all.” — Laura Ingalls Wilder .

95. John Bunyan (1628-1688)

Portrait of English preacher and writer John Bunyan.

John Bunyan’s The Pilgrim’s Progress is one of the most important works in religious English literature. The Bedfordshire, England-born author, who would go on to become one of the most well-known religious writers of all time had his own fair share of suffering, much of which informed his outlook on faith and religion. Bunyan’s The Pilgrim’s Progress was written while he was imprisoned for preaching without a license. For centuries, the famous Puritan-themed book has inspired readers with its acute spiritual insight and vivid storytelling. In fact, Bunyan’s accessible and striking storytelling has ensured the book’s place as a classic, offering moral and spiritual guidance across generations. At one point The Pilgrim’s Progress was considered the second most influential religious book after the Bible . Apart from The Pilgrim’s Progress , Bunyan also wrote his spiritual autobiography, Grace Abounding while he was imprisoned for 12 years. The account detailed his personal journey of faith, struggles with doubt, and a spiritual triumph which provided some insight into his personal life. Bunyan’s works are available at Moody Publishers .

Famous Quote: “In prayer it is better to have a heart without words than words without a heart. ”― John Bunyan .

94. Lewis Carroll (Charles Lutwidge Dodgson) (1832-1898)

British mathematician, author and photographer Charles Lutwidge Dogson (1832 - 1898), who wrote ... [+] several books under the pseudonym of Lewis Carroll.

Lewis Carroll, author of Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland , was also a mathematician and logician, whose obsession with logic influenced his career. Carroll’s interest in logic and wordplay had a major impact in his formulaic approach to writing, making his works rich in both imaginative and intellectual content. Born in Chesire, England, the skilled mathematician had an innate skill when it came to weaving complicated mind puzzles and otherworldly narrative elements together to create fascinating stories, and this is primarily what makes Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland a captivating and often mind-bending read. Apart from writing novels, Carroll was also a poet and photographer, whose other notable works include Jabberwocky and The Hunting of the Snark . Carroll’s timeless appeal can be attributed to his ability to reconcile the interplay between reality and fantasy, coupled with logic and nonsense. His works are available at Simon & Schuster .

Famous Quote: “Who in the world am I? Ah, that's the great puzzle.”― Lewis Carroll .

93. Saint Mark the Evangelist (A.D. 12-A.D. 68)

Saint Mark the Evangelist, circa 1624-1625.

The Evangelist Mark was the author of The Gospel of Mark, the second book of the New Testament. His account is often considered to be the earliest and pithiest account of Jesus life and teachings. Mark, who was born in Cyrene of the Roman Empire, never met Jesus, but his concise and poignant storytelling about Christ has had a lasting impact on Christian theology for centuries. Written with a sense of immediacy and urgency, the Gospel of Mark captures the core of Jesus’ ministry, highlighting his miracles, parables, and the weighty sense of mission that defined his journey on earth. Mark’s writing style, while simple and unadorned, is poignant and relatable, making it accessible to a broad audience. The gospel’s influence has extended beyond religious circles and influenced Western literature, art and broader socio-cultural perceptions and interpretations of who Jesus was. His work is available at Bible Gateway .

Famous Quote : “Do not become a disciple of one who praises himself, in case you learn pride instead of humility.” — Saint Mark the Evangelist .

92. Mary Wollstonecraft Shelley (1797-1851)

Portrait of Mary Wollstonecraft Shelley.

Mary Wollstonecraft Shelley, born in London, England, is best known for her seminal book Frankenstein, which shattered literary boundaries and blurred the lines between gothic storytelling and science fiction. Shelley completed her first draft of Frankenstein in 1816 at only 18 years old, but it was published anonymously two years later, when she was 20. The novel is considered one of the earliest examples of science fiction because it explores creation, ambition and the ethical limits of scientific inquiry. Shelley’s imaginative vision and profound questions about the ethical roles that humans play in the world are ones that have continued to be explored by new and up-and-coming writers and thinkers. Her ability to integrate Gothic horror with philosophical questioning also made her an unforgettable figure. Her other notable work is The Modern Prometheus and her books are available at Simon & Schuster .

Famous Quote: “Beware; for I am fearless, and therefore powerful.” — Mary Shelley .

91. Jonathan Swift (1667-1745)

Jonathan Swift, Anglo-Irish clergyman, satirist and poet.

Dublin-born Jonathan Swift is widely regarded as one of the greatest satirists in the English language. His works, which include the critically acclaimed Gulliver's Travels and A Modest Proposal , were the highlights of his sharp wit, keen intellect and understanding of human nature and psychology. Swift’s writing conveyed a brilliant ability to combine biting satire with insightful social commentary to create meaningful stories that would remain classic historical relics long after his death in 1745. Swift was also involved in the political and social issues of his time. As a cleric, he held several leadership positions in the Church of Ireland, including his position as Dean of St. Patrick’s Cathedral in Dublin. His political pamphlets and essays, such as The Drapier’s Letters , played a crucial role in the Irish resistance to English economic policies. Swift’s works were not limited to prose; he was also an accomplished poet and essayist whose poems like A Description of a City Shower , proved his ability to merge satire with vivid imagery. Swift also wrote essays, and some of his work is available at Penguin Random House .

Famous Quote: “It is useless to attempt to reason a man out of a thing he was never reasoned into.” ― Jonathan Swift .

90. Hans Christian Andersen (1805-1875)

Still portrait of Hans Christian Andersen.

Born in Odense, Denmark, Hans Christian Andersen rose from a poor background to become one of the most recognized authors of all time, whose fairy tales have enchanted children and adults alike for generations. Although he struggled early in his career, his work eventually gained recognition for its imaginative and whimsical storytelling. Andersen created memorable stories by using simplicity and charm to teach moral lessons and his fairy tales often explored themes of resilience, kindness and the triumph of good. Some of his most iconic creations include The Little Mermaid , The Ugly Duckling , The Emperor’s New Clothes and Thumbelina . Some say that glimpses of Andersen’s childhood could be found in most of his written work, and for centuries, his immortal stories have been translated into numerous languages and adapted into various forms, including ballets, plays and films. Readers of all ages, have found his work magnetic, stretching his legacy as a master storyteller from one generation of readers, old and young, to the next. Andersen’s works can be purchased from Penguin Random House.

Famous quote: “But a mermaid has no tears, and therefore she suffers so much more.”― Hans Christian Andersen .

89. Ralph Waldo Emerson (1803-1882)

Portrait of American poet and essayist Ralph Waldo Emerson.

Ralph Waldo Emerson, born in Boston, Massachusetts, was an American essayist, lecturer, philosopher, abolitionist and poet who was one of the most influential American thinkers of the 19th century. Emerson who was fondly called by his middle name, Waldo, was a visionary essayist, lecturer, philosopher, poet and ardent abolitionist whose intellectual leadership inspired the Transcendentalist movement and advocated for the inherent goodness of people and nature. This advocacy was so powerful that it flowed into his written work and made him stand out as a great writer, public speaker and advocate. Besides writing, Emerson used his skills as a public speaker to condemn slavery and advocate for civil right and liberty. Some of his best written works include Self-Reliance , The Over-Soul , Circles and Nature . Some of his works are available at Simon & Schuster .

Famous quote: “To be yourself in a world that is constantly trying to make you something else is the greatest accomplishment.” — Ralph Waldo Emerson .

88. Henry David Thoreau (1817-1862)

Writer Henry David Thoreau poses for a portrait in circa 1860.

Henry David Thoreau, born in Concord, Massachusetts, was an American naturalist, essayist, poet and philosopher whose works have continued to be studied in schools and institutions of higher education for their emphasis on American and environmental thought. Like his close friend Ralph Waldo Emerson, Thoreau also became a central figure in the Transcendentalist movement, and his writings began to reflect his respect for nature, his advocacy for simple living, and his commitment to social reform and civil liberty. Thoreau's commitment to his principles was demonstrated when he was jailed for refusing to pay a poll tax, which he believed supported slavery and the Mexican-American War. This act of civil disobedience inspired his famous essay Civil Disobedience . In Civil Disobedience , originally titled Resistance to Civil Government , Thoreau argues for the importance of individual conscience and the moral necessity to resist unjust laws and government actions. His essay has influenced many notable figures and movements advocating for social justice and nonviolent resistance. Thoreau’s best works include Walden, a series of 18 essays, Civil Disobedience and Walking. Some of his work is available at Simon & Schuster .

Famous Quote: “Rather than love, than money, than fame, give me truth.”— Henry David Thoreau .

87. Louisa May Alcott (1832-1888)

Portrait of Louisa May Alcott.

Because Louisa May Alcott’s father, Bronson Alcott, was a Transcendentalist, she grew up in the company of well-known transcendentalists like Ralph Waldo Emerson, Nathaniel Hawthorne and Henry Thoreau, all of whom also happened to be excellent writers. In fact, Thoreau inspired quite a bit of Alcott’s work, and was one of the driving forces behind her desire to write. Although Alcott was born in Germantown, Pennsylvania, she lived most of her life in Massachusetts, and that location would inspire her work. Among some of her notable books are Little Women, which was a self-directed book about her experiences growing up with her sisters and their childhood memories. Other notable books from Alcott include Good Wives and Little Men. An avid writer , Alcott also thrived in the short story form, and her success as an author afforded her the opportunity to also become a Transcendentalist and advocate for women’s rights. Her works are available at Simon & Schuster .

Famous Quote: “I am not afraid of storms, for I am learning how to sail my ship.” — Louisa May Alcott .

86. J.D. Salinger (1919-2010)

J.D. Salinger

J.D. Salinger was born in New York City, so he knew a thing or two about good storytelling. His critically-acclaimed novel The Catcher in the Rye is considered the magnum opus of his career, and is a detailed and sincere account that explores the angst and alienation that can often come with adolescence. Before becoming a famous wrier, Salinger briefly attended New York University and Columbia University, and he served in World War II, where he participated in the D-Day invasion and witnessed the liberation of concentration camps. These experiences influenced his writing, adding depth to his portrayal of human emotions and relationships and during his time serving, Salinger wrote more than 20 short stories, which helped him to segue into full-time writing. His short stories published in magazines like The New Yorker and introduced readers to his tone. Throughout his years as an author , Salinger’s signature colloquial tone and careful analysis of the characters in his stories always guided his plots. His written work is available at Hachette Book Group .

Famous quote: “What really knocks me out is a book that, when you’re all done reading it, you wish the author that wrote it was a terrific friend of yours and you could call him up on the phone whenever you felt like it. That doesn’t happen much, though.” ― J.D. Salinger .

85. Arthur Conan Doyle (1859-1930)

British writer and physician Sir Arthur Conan Doyle in his garden.

British writer and physician Arthur Conan Doyle, born in Edinburgh, Scotland, became known for his iconic creation of the detective Sherlock Holmes, a mystery book character who has become synonymous with stealth. Doyle was educated at the University of Edinburgh, where he studied medicine; he offered his medical services during the South African War and detailed his experience in his non-fiction book, The Great Boer War . Doyle’s writing, characterized by a keen attention to detail and deliberate plotting, made a lasting impact on detective-themed storytelling and secured Sherlock Holmes as a blueprint for the detective-mystery genre. Even though he created the highly logical and skeptical detective Sherlock Holmes, Doyle was a firm believer in spiritualism and became one of the leaders of the spiritualist movement following the First World War. His book The History of Spiritualism further examined the topic through a variety of essays. Apart from his detective stories, Doyle also wrote historical novels , science fiction, plays and fantasy. His works are available at Harrington Books Co .

Famous quote: “You see, but you do not observe.” — Arthur Conan Doyle .

84. Sylvia Plath ( 1932-1963)

Sylvia Plath seated in front of a bookshelf.

Sylvia Plath was an American poet and novelist known for her confessional style of writing. That confessional writing style became more widely recognized during the 1950s and 1960s, with Plath being one of its leading figures alongside poets like Robert Lowell and Anne Sexton​. Born in Boston, Plath’s work was unique for its intensity and focus on mental illness. Very often, Plath’s state of mind was expressed through her writings, and some of her best-known works include the poetry collection Ariel, Daddy, Lady Lazarus and The Bell Jar, which mirrored her own struggles with depression . Plath’s The Collected Poems , which included previously unpublished works, was posthumously published in 1981, and she received a Pulitzer Prize in Poetry for the collection in 1982, making her the fourth person to receive the recognition posthumously at the time. Her works are available at HarperColins Publishers .

Famous Quote: “If you expect nothing from somebody you are never disappointed.”― Sylvia Plath .

83. Roald Dahl (1916-1990)

Closeup candid portrait of writer Roald Dahl waving a cigarette while talking at home.

Roald Dahl’s zany and often times dark children’s books , like Matilda , Charlie and the Chocolate Factory and James and the Giant Peach , have been fan favorites for decades. This is partly thanks to the Wales-born writer’s penchant for the otherworldly and adventurous. Dahl, who often had views that were deemed controversial, tapped into a wide range of emotions and subjects in his works. Almost every visual adaptation of a Dahl-inspired storyline has the same element of strangeness, with larger-than-life protagonists who have a lopsided, loopy way about them. Dahl’s past as a fighter pilot in World War II and his role as a spy for the British government also partly inspired his adventurous approach to writing stories. Although he was well-known for children’s books, Dahl wasn’t just about entertaining children. His grisly-themed short stories for adults also explored the darker sides of human nature, and highlighted his versatility as a writer. Even after his death, fans remember his work for the way he reconciled the fantastical with the sinister, which has made him a notable name in history. In 2021, Forbes ranked Dahl as one of the top-earning dead celebrities, and with over 300 million copies of his works sold worldwide, Dahl’s work continues to impact literature. They are available at Penguin Random House .

Famous Quote: “So please, oh please, we beg, we pray, go throw your TV set away, and in its place you can install, a lovely bookshelf on the wall.”― Roald Dahl .

82. Zadie Smith (1975- )

Zadie Smith at the Cliveden Literary Festival in Windsor, England.

London-born Zadie Smith is a critically acclaimed British novelist, essayist, professor and avid reader known for her vibrant, multi-layered story structures and careful explorations of race, identity and multiculturalism. Her debut novel White Teeth caught the attention of many critics who appreciated her take on multiculturalism and identity in modern Britain and beyond. Smith’s character development in her debut book was so excellent that it prompted critics to call her a modern-day Charles Dickens. Over the course of her career, Smith’s unique insight into sensitive issues like race, identity and religion have made her a well-respected figure of the 21st century. Her intelligent analysis of the diverse, multicultural experience of life in London and beyond it has helped to frame her as a leading voice in contemporary fiction. In spite of this, Smith has developed a rather pragmatic approach to writing, arguing that the art form should not be a division of head and heart, but the useful integration of both. Other notable works from Smith include On Beauty, Changing My Mind: Occasional Essays and Feel Free. Her work is available at Penguin Random House .

Famous Quote: “Every moment happens twice: inside and outside, and they are two different histories.”― Zadie Smith .

81. Aesop (620 B.C.-564 B.C.)

A bust of slave and story-teller Aesop (620 - 560 BC), who lived in ancient Greece and is known for ... [+] the genre of fables ascribed to him, circa 550 B.C.

Fables have been a crucial part of human storytelling for millennia, and that is partly because one of the most revered fabulists, Aesop, who is responsible for some of the most popular fables in history. The fabled ancient Greek fabulist and storyteller is known for his collection of fables, known as Aesop’s Fables , which include stories like The Tortoise and the Hare and The Boy Who Cried Wolf, which symbolize evergreen moral lessons through simple and memorable stories that have been passed on from one generation to the next. Aesop’s stories have become a cornerstone in children’s literature because of their pithy and wise observations of human nature, often featuring animals as characters with human traits and vices. These timeless stories have been translated into numerous languages and adapted into various cultural contexts, influencing folklore and storytelling traditions worldwide. While much about Aesop’s life is a mystery, his stories have had a lasting effect on Western culture and education. Aesop’s work is available at Simon & Schuster .

Famous quote: “A doubtful friend is worse than a certain enemy. Let a man be one thing or the other, and we then know how to meet him.”― Aesop .

80. Ralph Waldo Ellison (1914-1994)

Novelist Ralph Ellison poses for a portrait in Harlem, New York City.

Born in Oklahoma City, Ralph Waldo Ellison, named after Ralph Waldo Emerson, wrote in a way that was notable for its rich, symbolic and honest accounts of race and individuality in America. At the start of his career, Ellison moved to New York City in 1936 and lived in Harlem, hoping to be able to study sculpture. It was there that he would meet Langston Hughes, Harlem’s “unofficial diplomat” during the Depression era, and a well-respected author at the time. While in Harlem, Ellison also met influential people like Romare Bearden and Richard Wright, all of whom would become impactful in his life as an author. After serving in World War II, Ellison produced Invisible Man , which won the 1953 National Book Award for Fiction. The book was particularly celebrated for its complex storyline and thematic content​. Although he became well-known for his novel, his compiled essays and his work as a sculptor, musician, photographer and college professor earned him accolades and recognition as well. Ellison’s compiled essays included collections like Shadow and Act and Going to the Territory . Other works by Ellison include Flying Home and Other Stories and Juneteenth, which were posthumously published . Ellison’s work is available at Penguin Random House .

Famous Quote: “Life is to be lived, not controlled, and humanity is won by continuing to play in the face of certain defeat.”― Ralph Ellison .

79. Isabel Allende (1942- )

Isabel Allende photographed in her home on February 12, 1990 in San Rafael, California.

Isabel Allende is a Lima, Peru-born author who is famous for books that mostly contain strong elements of magical realism. Her storytelling style tends to incorporate the personal with the historical, bringing Latin American culture and history to life. Some of Allende’s most famous books include City of the Beasts , The House of the Spirits and Eva Luna . Allende spent much of her childhood in Chile and various other countries because of her stepfather’s diplomatic career. Allende continues to write and has earned the respect of critics for her apt imagination and restless ambition to keep creating stories that refine wat magic realism represents. She has won numerous awards for her work, including the National Literature Prize of Chile, the Presidential Medal of Freedom and the National Book Award for Lifetime Achievement, among others. Her books can be found at Simon & Schuster .

Famous quote: “Magical realism is a genre of literature that depicts the real world as having an undercurrent of magic or fantasy.” — Isabel Allende .

78. Jorge Luis Borges (1899-1986)

Jorge Luis Borges at the Sorbonne university in Paris, France In 1978.

Jorge Luis Borges was an imaginative poet, essayist and short story writer who skillfully crafted a career by creating complex and imaginative plots that are defined by labyrinths, mirrors and infinite libraries. The Argentina-born author has become a 20th century icon for his effective storytelling and unprecedented ability to concoct the boundaries of reality and fiction to create stories that intrigue and fascinate. As a writer, Borges has created an extensive body of work that has left its imprint on literature, primarily short stories and essays that have been drawn from the inspiration of Buenos Aires. Some of his best known works are The Library of Babel and Fictions . His work is available at Penguin Random House .

Famous quote: “I have always imagined that Paradise will be a kind of library.” — Jorge Luis Borges .

77. John Milton ( 1608-1674)

Engraved portrait of British poet and politician John Milton (1608 - 1674), mid 17th century.

English historian, poet and pamphleteer John Milton is considered one of the most important figures in British literature. Milton’s reputation as a great is partly because his work spanned various genres, including prose and poetry, which has offered every type of reader a plethora of options to choose from. Milton’ s Paradise Lost , published in 1667, is widely regarded as his magnum opus, consisting of ten books that were later expanded to twelve in the 1674 edition. Even though he was blind in both eyes when he created Paradise Lost , his ability to compose such complex and detailed work is a testament to his intellectual acumen. Milton was often unafraid to share his thoughts on tyrannical leadership and the state of religion, and that is primarily what made him an unforgettable writer. Other notable works from Milton include Paradise Regained and Samson Agonistes. His works are available at Penguin Random House .

Famous quote: “The mind is its own place, and in itself can make a heaven of hell, a hell of heaven.” — John Milton .

76. Toni Morrison (1931-2019)

Pulitzer Prize-winning author Toni Morrison photographed in New York City in 1979.

Born in Lorain, Ohio, Toni Morrison was a Nobel Prize-winning author whose work took readers on a deep exploration of the Black experience. Her critically acclaimed novels, such as the Pulitzer-prize winning Beloved , evocative Song of Solomon and The Bluest Eye , are honored for their poetic prose and immense emotional and cultural impact. Morrison wasn’t just a writer; she was a thought leader whose ideas remain relevant to today. Like James Baldwin, her criticism of unjust society has remained a cornerstone for conversations around race and class. In addition to novels, she wrote essays, children’s books, articles and plays that showcased her genius as a writer. Her works are available at Simon & Schuster .

Famous quote: “The function of freedom is to free someone else.” — Toni Morrison .

75. Henry James (1843-1916)

American novelist Henry James in his study.

Henry James, born in New York City, was an American-British author known for his contributions to the 20th-century novel as well as literary realism and modernism. His writing focused on his beliefs concerning the innocence and exuberance of the New World in contrast to the jadedness of the Old. His notable works include Daisy Miller , The Portrait of a Lady , The Turn of the Screw and The Wings of the Dove . James’s writing often explored the complicated nature of the human mind and social reform and revolutions, as well as social consciousness. During his time, James was regarded as a brilliant short story writer whose work frequently appeared in magazines. James also wrote poems and memoirs. His work is available at the Library of America .

Famous quote: “Try to be one of those on whom nothing is lost.” — Henry James .

74. D.H. Lawrence (1885-1930)

Still image of D.H. Lawrence.

David Herbert Lawrence, born in Eastwood, England, was a novelist, poet and essayist known for his controversial and unconventional storytelling, which inevitably made him one of the most influential writers in the early 20th century. His novels emphasized multiple themes, including vivid realism, sexuality and complex family dynamics. During his time, Lawrence had an uncanny ability to vividly describe human emotions and states of mind, which were both compelling and relatable to readers. Some of his best-known books include Sons and Lovers and Women in Love. The English author also wrote short stories, plays, travel books and letters. Some of his work is available at Simon & Schuster .

Famous quote: “A woman has to live her life, or live to repent not having lived it.” — D.H. Lawrence .

73. Wole Soyinka (1934- )

Wole Soyinka circa 1986.

Wole Soyinka is a Nigerian playwright, political activist, poet and essayist who won the Nobel Prize in Literature in 1986, becoming the first African laureate to do so. Born in Abeokuta, Nigeria, Soyinka grew up in an environment that was rich with the Nigerian Yoruba culture , which significantly influenced his work. He studied in Nigeria and the UK, where he attended the University of Leeds. Throughout his career, Soyinka has been a vocal critic of Nigerian dictatorships, which led to his imprisonment during the Nigerian Civil War and subsequent exile. Soyinka’s writing style is noted for its lyrical quality, which often weaves traditional African theater with Western literary forms. Some of his most influential works include Myth, Literature, and the African World; Death and the King’s Horseman ; the novel The Man Died: Prison Notes and the memoir Ake: The Years of Childhood . His works can be found at Penguin Random House .

Famous quote: “Books and all forms of writing are terror to those who wish to suppress truth.”― Wole Soyinka .

72. Chinua Achebe (1930-2013)

Chinua Achebe.

Nigerian writer Chinua Achebe, born in Ogidi, Nigeria, is considered an African icon and an ambassador for the Igbo tribe. To this day, Achebe’s novel Things Fall Apart is a cornerstone of modern African study and has been globally celebrated in scholarly circles for its vivid depiction of the clash between traditional African culture and colonial influences. Achebe’s work has been regarded as a central piece to modern African Literature and his lucid writing style, known for its syllogistic conjoinment of oratory, folk stories and Igbo proverbs has depicted the core of African societies. Achebe’s writing style has also been marked by its poetic, yet stark analogy of Nigerian culture and society but more specifically, the Nigerian Igbo culture. Achebe’s works extend beyond novels to essays, poetry and short stories. His books can be found at Penguin Random House .

Famous quote: “If you don’t like someone’s story, write your own.” — Chinua Achebe .

71. Agatha Christie (1890-1976)

English detective novelist, Agatha Christie typing at her home, Greenway House, Devon, England ... [+] January 1946.

English writer Agatha Christie was known for her prolific creation of detective novels and the iconic characters Hercule Poirot and Miss Marple, who drove many of her stories. Born Agatha Mary Clarissa Miller in 1890 in Torquay, England, Christie's journey from a privileged upbringing to becoming one of the best-selling authors of all time began while she was working as a nurse during World War I. Her debut novel, The Mysterious Affair at Styles , was published in 1920 and would become a stepping stone for an iconic repertoire. ​Most of Christie’s books have a similar formula that includes meticulous plotting, clever plot twists and engaging mysteries that are difficult to determine for readers until the very end of the story. With over two billion books sold worldwide, Christie’s influence on mystery is undeniable, and her works have been translated into numerous languages and adapted into various films, television series and stage plays. Some of Christie’s most influential works include Murder on the Orient Express , T he Murder of Roger Ackroyd , and And Then There Were None , which are celebrated for their complex plots and surprising resolutions. Christie’s books are available for purchase at HarperCollins Publishers

Famous quote: “A mother's love for her child is like nothing else in the world. It knows no law, no pity. It dares all things and crushes down remorselessly all that stands in its path. ― Agatha Christie .

70. Franz Kafka (1883-1924)

Franz Kafka circa 1915.

Franz Kafka, born in Prague, was a German-speaking Bohemian writer who was known for his surreal and existential approach to telling stories. Kafka’s notable books include The Metamorphosis , Letter to His Father and The Castle . His stories were often filled with themes of alienation and absurdity and he often depicted his characters as alienated people facing systemic oppression and isolation. He was one of the most prominent writers to showcase the impact of societal shunning through the lens of the shunned. Although Kafka was a talented writer who spent long nights immersed in his craft, his struggles with constant self-doubt caused him to destroy 90% of his work and much of what survived remains lost or unpublished. Other Kafka words include Contemplation and A Country Doctor. His work is available at Simon & Schuster .

Famous quote: “A book must be the axe for the frozen sea within us.” — Franz Kafka .

69. J.K. Rowling (1965- )

J.K. Rowling attends the European premiere of "Fantastic Beasts And Where To Find Them" at Odeon ... [+] Leicester Square on November 15, 2016 in London.

J.K. Rowling, born Joanne Rowling in Gloucestershire, England, is a British author best known for creating the globally beloved Harry Potter series. Her journey from a struggling single mother to one of the world’s most successful and influential writers is a remarkable one that has heightened the appeal of her success story. According to Rowling, she jotted down the initial idea for Harry Potter on a napkin while her train from Manchester to London was delayed for hours in 1990. According to the famous writer, she had a visceral reaction to the concept of the main character who would go on to define her career and this napkin became the starting point for her immensely popular series. Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone (retitled Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone in the U.S.) was published in 1997 after being rejected by numerous publishers. The book quickly became a success and has since expanded into a seven-volume series and sold over 600 million copies worldwide, inspiring a global billion-dollar media franchise. Many of Rowling fans consider Rowling’s Harry Potter and the Cursed Child to be the unofficial eighth book in the series. Although Rowling is well known for The Harry Potter series, other books in her repertoire are Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them and The Tales of Beedle the Bard among others . Her books are available at Bloomsbury Publishing .

Famous Quote: “It does not do to dwell on dreams and forget to live.” ― J.K. Rowling .

68. Emily Dickinson (1830-1886)

American poet Emily Dickinson.

Born in Amherst, Massachusetts, Emily Dickinson is one of America’s most important lyric poets. Dickinson was known for her unconventional approach to painting a literary picture, and even her use of punctuation marks, which was reflected in an approach to the art form which critics often defined as concise and enigmatic, has established her as a unique and quintessential American poet. Dickinson’s poetry themes often explored death, immortality and nature. Her reclusive life was always ever-so-evident in her work, which is replete with short lines, slant rhyme and enigmatic language. Some of her famous works include I’m Nobody! Who are you?, Wild Nights – Wild Nights! and Because I could not stop for Death. Even though Dickinson wrote nearly 1,800 poems during her lifetime, fewer than a dozen of her poems appeared in print while she was alive. Apart from writing, Dickinson was also an accomplished gardener who frequently drew inspiration for her poems from the natural world she carefully tended to. Her collected works are available at the Harvard Library .

Famous quote: “Because I could not stop for Death – He kindly stopped for me—The Carriage held but just Ourselves –And Immortality.” — Emily Dickinson .

67. Mark Twain ( Samuel Langhorne Clemens) (1835-1910)

Colorized portrait of American author and humorist Mark Twain, circa 1900.

American writer, humorist, educator and journalist Mark Twain has become a decades-long household name for his apt depiction of the spirit of adventure. Twain, who was born Samuel Langhorne Clemens in Florida, Missouri, is often called the “father of American literature.” Known for his quick wit and sharp social commentary, Twain’s impressive output includes The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn and The Adventures of Tom Sawyer . Both of these books have served as a blueprint for high-spirited, adventure-loving children around the world. His works are available at Simon & Schuster .

Famous quote: “Travel is fatal to prejudice” — Mark Twain .

66. William Faulkner (1897-1962)

William Faulkner, circa 1935, on display at his Rowan Oak estate in Oxford, Mississippi.

Nobel Prize-winning American writer William Faulkner was well-known for his technical approach to writing and his ability to deep-dive into the human psyche with his stylistic prose. His famous novels, such as The Sound and the Fury , As I Lay Dying and Light in August, have become cornerstones of Southern Gothic literature. One distinct feature of Faulkner’s writing was his alternating exploration of thematic structure and stylistic creativity. Faulkner also wrote screenplays and short stories, and is regarded as one of the greatest writers of the 20th century. His work is available at Penguin Random House .

Famous quote: “Never be afraid to raise your voice for honesty and truth and compassion against injustice and lying and greed. If people all over the world... would do this, it would change the earth.”― William Faulkner .

65. T.S. Eliot (1888–1965)

T. S. Eliot inspecting manuscripts.

T.S. Eliot, born in St. Louis, was a leading playwright, poet and essayist of the 20th century. The English-American who became the leader of the modernist movement in poetry had an extensive body of work that included The Waste Land, his iconic play Murder in the Cathedral and his magnum opus Four Quartets, which are all renowned for their unorthodox, yet brilliant approach to storytelling. Eliot’s influence was palpable, so much so that in 1948, he earned a Nobel Prize for Literature. Beyond poetry, Eliot also wrote drama and was a literary critic. His work is available at Faber & Faber .

Famous quote: “Do I dare disturb the universe? In a minute, there is time for decisions and revisions, which a minute will reverse.”― T.S. Eliot .

64. F. Scott Fitzgerald (1896-1940)

F. Scott Fitzgerald writing at a desk.

Francis Scott Key Fitzgerald, born in St. Paul, was an American novelist, short story writer and Hollywood scriptwriter who became known for his vivid depiction of the Jazz Age. Fitzgerald is not just a famous writer, but one that is crucial to the breadth and depth of American literature and the concept of the American Dream itself. His masterpiece, The Great Gatsby , is a profound critique of the American Dream and one of the most important novels about the American ideal. Fitzgerald’s writing was often characterized by lyrical prose and tragic characters, which have made his work timeless. Other notable Fitzgerald books include Tender Is the Night and This Side of Paradise . His works are available at Simon & Schuster .

Famous quote: “So we beat on, boats against the current, borne back ceaselessly into the past.” — F. Scott Fitzgerald.

63. Marcel Proust (1871-1922)

French novelist Marcel Proust (Photo by Apic/Getty Images)

Marcel Proust, born in Auteuil, near Paris, France and he is best known for his crowing glory In Search of Lost Time ( À la Recherche du Temps Perdu ). The seven-volume series were published throughout his lifetime and even after his death, and they explored themes of memory, time and art with precise depth and elegance. Proust’s psychological insight has made his work a blueprint for modern writing. More specifically, his ability to capture the nuances of memory and the fleeting nature of time has made In Search of Lost Time a classic. The seven-part novel examines the story of Proust’s life, told as a quest to find truth and meaning. In the book, Proust wrote what was reported to be the longest sentence ever published, and holds the record for doing so at a whopping 847 words.​ Proust’s work introduced the concept of involuntary memory, which is often referred to as the “Proust Effect.” This concept describes how sensory experiences, like taste or smell, can prompt suppressed memories from the past. Other notable works by Proust include Swann’s Way ( Du Côté de Chez Swann ). Proust also wrote short stories, including Les Plaisirs et les Jours, and most of his works are available at Penguin Random House .

Famous Quote: “The real voyage of discovery consists not in seeking new landscapes, but in having new eyes.”— Marcel Proust .

62. Gustave Flaubert (1821-1880)

The French novelist Gustav Flaubert circa 1851.

Gustave Flaubert, renowned for his bourgeois-themed novel Madame Bovary , was a prominent author in the literary realism movement. It wasn’t just the themes of his work that distinguished him, but his obsessive attention to detail and pursuit of stylistic perfection which has set the high bar for other novelists, especially up-and-coming French writers. Flaubert’s candid portrayals of his characters made him a leading figure in the realist school of French literature and earned him the respect of his peers. Flaubert viewed writing as his life’s purpose, which is why he was able to create vivid characters and portray everyday life so poignantly. Although he was born in Rouen, France, Flaubert was an avid traveler who took the time to see the world outside of his comfort zone. His travel to countries like Egypt and Greece and the Middle East influenced his works, adding depth and authenticity to his descriptions, particularly in novels like Salammbô ​. Other well-known Flaubert pieces are Sentimental Education and Three Tales. His work is available at Simon& Schuster .

Famous Quote: “Be regular and orderly in your life, so that you may be violent and original in your work.”― Gustav Flaubert .

61. Thomas Mann (1875-1955)

Portrait of German author Thomas Mann as he sits at his desk.

Thomas Mann was a German essayist and novelist best known for his novels Buddenbrooks , Der Tod in Venedig and Der Zauberberg, which contributed to earning him a Nobel Prize for Literature in 1929. Mann’s first major novel, Buddenbrooks , was inspired by his personal experiences and his family’s background as merchants in Lübeck, Germany, where he was born. Buddenbrooks played a major role in earning him the Nobel Prize in Literature, but it was his other acclaimed work, The Magic Mountain, that would make him a household name. In The Magic Mountain, Mann highlighted complex themes of time, illness and death set against the backdrop of a Swiss sanatorium, which made the book a cultural touchstone and increased Mann’s critical acclaim. Notably, in his writings, Mann also critiqued the German government in many of his writings and was an outspoken critic of the Nazi regime. This led him to move to Switzerland in 1936 after he was exiled by Germany in 1933. He would later emigrate to the United States, where he lived until after World War II. His books are available at Penguin Random House .

Famous Quote: “Tolerance becomes a crime when applied to evil.” ― Thomas Mann .

60. J. R. R. Tolkien (1892-1973)

Image of John Ronald Reuel Tolkien in a library.

John Ronald Reuel Tolkien, who is famously known as J. R. R. Tolkien, was a South-African-English author, poet, professor and philologist whose high-fantasy works The Hobbit and The Lord of the Rings trilogy became pivotal literary landmarks in his career. Tolkien’s richly constructed world of Middle-earth, complete with its own languages, histories and cultures, has had a lasting impact on the fantasy genre and pop culture. Tolkien’s imagination, as depicted through his use of mythology, detailed maps and complex characters, has set the bar high for world-building in literature. As a writer and creator, Tolkien’s expertise in language was especially evident in his invention of Elvish languages like Quenya and Sindarin, which reflected his academic background as a professor of Anglo-Saxon at Oxford University. His scholarly works, including his translations and studies of ancient texts such as "Beowulf," influenced his creative process and informed the depth of most of his fictional universe. Modern day filmmakers have used Tolkien’s work as a blueprint for bringing the lore of Middle-earth to the big screen. His creativity has inspired an array of adaptations, including animated films, live-action movies and numerous video games. Tolkein’s books are available at HarperCollins Publishers .

Famous quote: “Not all those who wander are lost.”― J.R.R. Tolkien .

59. Robert Frost (1874-1963)

American icon, poet Robert Frost.

Robert Frost, with his depiction of rural New England life, is one of America’s most celebrated poets. Frost’s simple and understated signature writing is what earned him four Pulitzer Prizes during the life of his career. Although the famous poet has been closely linked to New England, he was actually born in San Francisco, and only moved to Massachusetts at 11 after his father’s death. This move would later influence his career and reputation as a writer. Some of Frost’s prominent works include Mountain Interval , New Hampshire and A Witness Tree, all of which won Pulitzer Prizes. In addition to his literary accomplishments, Frost also had an impactful academic career that gave him the opportunity to teach at several colleges. He taught at Amherst College and also at Bread Loaf School of English at Middlebury College, where he spent many summers teaching and mentoring young writers. Frost’s legacy extended beyond his poetry; he was invited to read a poem titled The Gift Outright at President John F. Kennedy’s inauguration in 1961. Frost’s work are available at Penguin Random House .

Famous quote: “Never be bullied into silence. Never allow yourself to be made a victim. Accept no one’s definition of your life; define yourself.”― Robert Frost .

58. Alexandre Dumas (1802-1870)

Author Alexandre Dumas.

Alexandre Dumas is a key author of 19th century historical adventure novels, and is well known for stories like The Count of Monte Cristo and The Three Musketeers . Dumas was born in Villers-Cotterêts, France, and was of mixed race. This racial ambiguity would become a sticking point in his career and something that he would address in his 1843 novel Georges . Dumas’ family background also inspired his interest in historical-based writing. His father, General Thomas-Alexandre Dumas, was an army general in Napoleon’s army and one of the highest-ranking officers. It can be easy to conclude that Dumas’ interest in using historical contexts as setting for his stories were inspired by his own background. Besides novels, Dumas also wrote memoirs and plays. Some of his most notable plays include Napoléon Bonaparte and the classic story of Antony. Dumas’ works are available at Barnes and Noble .

Famous quote: “Never fear quarrels, but seek hazardous adventures.”― Alexandre Dumas .

57. Nikolai Gogol (1809-1852)

Illustration of Nikolai Vassilievich Gogol.

Nikolai Gogol was a Ukrainian-born novelist, humorist and dramatist whose works were pivotal in the progression and reception of European literature. His satirical works, as depicted in stories like Dead Souls , masterfully critiqued the social and political issues of 19th-century Russia. Gogol employed his sharp wit and incisive observations on society to analyze issues of the corruption, greed and moral decay that were prevalent in 19th century Russian society. Other works like The Nose and The Overcoat depicted him as a versatile writer capable of employing creative techniques to make difficult topics more digestible for readers, and this solidified his credibility and earned him a reputation as an innovative writer. Gogol’s sharp intellect, coupled with his command of prose made him a well-respected writer whose influence continues to be relevant in Russian literature. His books can be found at Barnes & Noble .

Famous quote: “Always think of what is useful and not what is beautiful. Beauty will come of its own accord.”― Nikolai Gogol .

56. Haruki Murakami (1949- )

Haruki Murakami arrives at the "Princesa de Asturias" Awards at Teatro Campoamor on October 20, 2023 ... [+] in Asturias, Spain.

Haruki Murakami’s writing style is characterized by reflective and introspection. The contemporary Japanese author has gained a global following for the unique combination of surrealism and melancholy that he brings to his books. Born in Kyoto, his body of work includes novels, essays and short stories, and his books have sold millions of copies worldwide. Some of his famous pieces include Norwegian Wood, 1Q84 and Kafka on the Shore, which earned him the World Fantasy Award in 2006. Murakami’s work is available at Penguin Random House .

Famous quote: “We’re both looking at the same moon, in the same world. We’re connected to reality by the same line. All I have to do is quietly draw it towards me.” — Haruki Murakami .

55. Kurt Vonnegut (1922-2007)

Writer Kurt Vonnegut at home on April 12, 1972 in New York City.

Kurt Vonnegut was an author and short-story writer who was renowned for his wry, satirical novels, including The Sirens of Titan and Slaughterhouse-Five , a war-themed novel that was interspersed with cultural references that enriched its satirical edge. During his lifetime, Vonnegut shared that his work was influenced by George Orwell, Mark Twain and James Joyce, among others, and it is easy to see why. Apart from his unique and often bleakly humorous style, Vonnegut’s works frequently feature recurring themes such as the folly of war, the randomness of the universe, and the illusion of free will, especially in issues like death and life. The Indianapolis-born writer was also known for using the phrase ““And so it goes...” to illustrate the unavoidable finality of death. In his novel Cat’s Cradle , Vonnegut challenged the dangers of scientific advancement without moral oversight, while Player Piano — a book that seemed ahead of its time — discusses the economic hardship that can happen when human jobs becoming replaced by automated systems. A little known fact about Vonnegut’s humanitarian and scientific skepticism was the fact that he was a prisoner of war during World War II, and this influenced some of the angst in his writing, especially in Slaughterhouse-Five . Vonnegut’s works are available at Penguin Random House .

Famous quote: “And so it goes...”― Kurt Vonnegut .

54. Robert Louis Stevenson (1850-1894)

Portrait Robert Louis Stevenson, 19th century English poet and novelist.

Robert Louis Stevenson’s writings were not just memorable, they had a life-like manner to them. Perhaps this was because of his superior writing skills, but notable classics like Treasure Island, The Strange Case of Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde , which explored the duality of human nature, and Kidnapped , a historical adventure story set in Scotland, have made the Scotland-born essayist and poet a relevant figure even today. His evergreen insight into psychology is still resonant and impactful, offering timeless reflections on the human mind and the complex nature of morality and identity. A little known fact about Stevenson is his struggle with chronic health issues throughout his life, which influenced his writing style and themes. Regardless of his frail health, Stevenson traveled extensively, drawing inspiration from his journeys to places like the South Pacific, which influenced works such as In the South Seas . Although Stevenson’s father wanted him to pursue a career path in engineering, his decision to put pen to paper instead have earned him a distinguished place in literary history. Stevenson’s works are available at Penguin Random House .

Famous quote: “Keep your fears to yourself, but share your courage with others.”― Robert Louis Stevenson .

53. George Orwell (1903-1950)

Still image of Eric Arthur Blair also known as George Orwell.

George Orwell, born Eric Arthur Blair in India, was an English novelist, journalist and essayist best known for his wildly successful novels 1984 and Animal Farm . Orwell’s writing was known for its conciseness, clarity and political insight. He was also famous for his critique of totalitarianism and used his writing to advocate for democratic socialism. His commitment to social justice was not just evident in his fictional writing; it also came alive in his essays, journalism and memoirs. Orwell’s experiences in the Spanish Civil War, documented in his autobiographical account, Homage to Catalonia , and his insight into the lives of the poor in Down and Out in Paris and London , were a part of his advocacy as a storyteller who was committed to exposing social injustice. In essays like Shooting an Elephant and Politics and the English Language, Orwell proved that he could tackle complex political and social issues in a straightforward way that was also not trite. His ability to interweave personal experience with broader social commentary has left a lasting impression, not just on literature, but on global political thought. His works can be found at Simon & Schuster .

Famous quote: “Who controls the past controls the future. Who controls the present controls the past.” — George Orwell .

52. David Foster Wallace (1962-2008)

Close-up shot of Author David Foster Wallace.

Before becoming a renowned writer, David Foster Wallace was a competitive junior tennis player whose love for the sport often found its way into his writing, providing rich metaphors and insights into human behavior and competition​. The New York-born author completed his undergraduate degree at Amherst College, where he majored in English and philosophy. He was working towards his masters degree when his acclaimed debut novel, The Broom of the System was published . Other notable works from Wallace include Infinite Jest and short storie s like A Supposedly Fun Thing I’ll Never Do Again and Consider the Lobster, and Other Essays. Wallace’s writing is known for its signature use of by its use of extensive footnotes and endnotes, which provide additional commentary and tangential information, providing depth and context to his readers. This distinctive style has captivated readers and set his work apart from that of other contemporary writers. Wallace struggled with mental health throughout his career and this influenced a lot of his writing. At the time of his death in 2008, Wallace was working on a novel titled The Pale King . This unfinished manuscript was posthumously published in 2011 and received critical acclaim.. Wallace’s works are available at Hachette Book Group .

Famous quote: “The so-called “psychotically depressed” person who tries to kill herself doesn’t do so out of quote “hopelessness” or any abstract conviction that life’s assets and debits do not square. And surely not because death seems suddenly appealing. The person in whom Its invisible agony reaches a certain unendurable level will kill herself the same way a trapped person will eventually jump from the window of a burning high-rise. Make no mistake about people who leap from burning windows. Their terror of falling from a great height is still just as great as it would be for you or me standing speculatively at the same window just checking out the view; i.e. the fear of falling remains a constant. The variable here is the other terror, the fire’s flames: when the flames get close enough, falling to death becomes the slightly less terrible of two terrors. It’s not desiring the fall; it’s terror of the flames. And yet nobody down on the sidewalk, looking up and yelling ‘Don’t!’ and ‘Hang on!’, can understand the jump. Not really. You’d have to have personally been trapped and felt flames to really understand a terror way beyond falling.”― David Foster Wallace .

51. Edith Wharton (1862-1937)

Edith Wharton

American novelist and poet Edith Wharton was born in New York City into a well-established family. Her childhood was characterized by the finest luxuries that money could afford. Years later, this upbringing would inspire her writing because she later became well-known for her incisive portrayals of the American upper class. Her notable works, including The Age of Innocence, The House of Mirth and Ethan Frome examined themes of social change, class and the often noisy bothers of social expectations. Wharton was also a prominent voice in World War I and was living as an expatriate in France when the war broke out. As opposed to leaving the country and returning to comfort in America, Wharton to chose to stay and write extensively about the events that unraveled during that period, and she has become one of the most prominent storytellers of that era because of her grit and dedication during that time. Wharton’s elegant writing style and observant social commentary have her a notable author, and her ability to capture the nuances of social interactions and the tensions between individual desires has made her work timeless. Wharton’s works are available through Simon & Schuster .

Famous Quote: “Silence may be as variously shaded as speech.” — Edith Wharton .

50 . James Baldwin (1924-1987)

American Writer James Baldwin in Paris.

James Baldwin, born in Harlem, New York City, was a significant voice in American literature and a powerful advocate for civil rights. Known for his honest opinions on themes of race, sexuality and identity, Baldwin’s writing style often combined his personal experiences with poignant social critique in a way that was both provocative and intelligent. His most influential works include Go Tell It on the Mountain , Giovanni’s Room and The Fire Next Time . Although he was primarily a novelist and essayist, Baldwin’s written work is comprised of many genres, including novels, short stories, essays, songs, children’s literature, poetry and drama. His works can be found at Penguin Random House .

Famous quote: “Not everything that is faced can be changed, but nothing can be changed until it is faced.” — James Baldwin .

49. Voltaire (1694-1778)

Engraved portrait of Voltaire by Nicholas de Largilliere.

Voltaire, born François-Marie Arouet in Paris, was an Enlightenment writer and philosopher. His razor-sharp intellect and advocacy of civil liberties set him apart in his time. His writing career began early, and his unique interest in satire brought him both recognition and controversy. His satirical novella Candide , a scathing critique of optimism and organized religion, remains relevant today for its incisive commentary on human suffering and the foolishness of naive idealism. His other well-known work, Lettres Philosophiques, is an essay-style series that provides a unique insight into Voltaire's experiences in Britain. In addition to books, Voltaire also wrote poems, plays and polemics, each with its own unique perspective. This diversity in his work is a testament to his wide-ranging intellect and interests. His works are available at Simon & Schuster .

Famous Quote: “To the living we owe respect, but to the dead we owe only the truth.” — Voltaire.

48. Langston Hughes (1902-1967)

A portrait of poet, author, playwright and Harlem Renaissance leader Langston Hughes, New York, New ... [+] York, February 1959.

Langston Hughes was an important American poet, novelist, social activist, playwright and columnist from Joplin, Missouri, whose work spanned various genres, including poetry, short stories, novels and plays. Hughes was also influential during the Harlem Renaissance, a cultural movement of the 1920s and 1930s that celebrated African American cultural expressions and became a period that was renowned for its flourishing artistic, literary and intellectual achievements. This celebration of African American culture enriched the literary and artistic landscape of the time. Apart from leading the Harlem Renaissance movement, Hughes was also one of the creators of the literary genre known as jazz poetry, a rich form of literature that captures the core of jazz music and is illustrated by its jazz-like rhythm and focus on jazz music or musicians as its main elements. Born in 1902, Hughes’ writing frequently focused on the lives of Black Americans, their struggles, and their joys, marked by a sense of social justice and a celebration of Blackness. Some of his most notable works include The Weary Blues, Harlem , The Ways of White Folks and The Big Sea . His works are available at Penguin Random House .

Famous Quote: “Let the rain kiss you. Let the rain beat upon your head with silver liquid drops. Let the rain sing you a lullaby.”― Langston Hughes .

47. John Steinbeck (1902-1968)

John Steinbeck holds a press conference after being awarded the 1962 Nobel Prize for Literature.

The working-class life is one that can seem so mundane and ordinary, yet John Steinbeck, born in Salinas, California, created a niche in literature for his honest and empathetic portrayal of working-class life. The Nobel Prize-winning American author knew that the average reader was a working-class member of society and he created characters to cater to that niche. His notable works include The Grapes of Wrath , The Pearl and East of Eden . A majority of Steinbeck’s writing is marked by its social consciousness and humanism. Steinback also wrote poems, plays and short stories. His work. is available at Penguin Random House .

Famous quote: “ I am impelled, not to squeak like a grateful and apologetic mouse, but to roar like a lion out of pride in my profession.” — John Steinbeck .

46. Vladimir Nabokov (1899-1977)

Russian-American novelist Vladimir Nabokov in Montreux, Switzerland, circa 1965.

Russian-American novelist Vladimir Nabokov is best known for his novel Lolita , a controversial yet masterfully written story about warped obsession and how depraved the human mind can become. Nabokov’s writing was always characterized by its poetic flow, intricate language, literary allusions and narrative structure. Nabokov dabbled in a lot of different types of writing, including poetry, science writing, translations and autobiographies. His work is available at Penguin Random House .

Famous quote: “Human life is but a series of footnotes to a vast, obscure, unfinished masterpiece”― Vladimir Nabokov .

45. Albert Camus (1913-1960)

French writer Albert Camus poses for a portrait in Paris following the announcement of his being ... [+] awarded the Nobel Prize for literature.

French-Algerian novelist and Nobel Prize winner Albert Camus was a true literary powerhouse, whose skill for the written word also earned him the titles of journalist, playwright, novelist and essayist. As a leader of the existentialism movement, Camus became best known for his novels The Stranger , The Plague and his philosophical essay The Myth of Sisyphus . His writings frequently addressed themes of justice, rebellion and otherness. His work is available at Penguin Random House .

Famous quote: “In the depths of winter, I finally learned that within me there lay an invincible summer.” ― Albert Camus .

44. Friedrich Nietzsche (1844-1900)

German philosopher Friedrich Nietzsche.

Friedrich Nietzsche was a Röcke, Germany-born philosopher whose provocative ideas and radical critiques of morality, religion and contemporary culture left an impact on intellectual history. Nietzsche was best known for his declaration that “God is dead” and his exploration of the concept of the Übermensch, with Nietzsche arguing that the Übermensch would transcend conventional Christian morality. His work addressed the human psyche, challenging traditional notions of truth, and frequently critiquing both traditional and modern values. His notable works, including Thus Spoke Zarathustra , The Birth of Tragedy , Beyond Good and Evil and The Genealogy of Morals , which offer a three-dimensional approach into the questions that lay the foundations for Western thought. Nietzsche’s work has influenced generations of theologians, philosophers, psychologists, poets, novelists, and playwrights. Apart from his philosophical influence, Nietzsche’s life was also marked by intense personal struggles like debilitating migraines and deteriorating eyesight, which forced him to retire from his professorship at a relatively young age. Interestingly, Nietzsche was also a composer, having created several musical pieces that reflected his complex and introspective worldview. His work is available at Penguin Random House .

Famous quote: “That which does not kill us makes us stronger.”― Friedrich Nietzsche .

43. Hermann Hesse (1877-1962)

German-born novelist Hermann Hesse, circa 1945.

Nobel Prize winner Hermann Hesse was a German-Swiss poet, novelist and painter whose writing emphasized the importance of identity and non-conformity. The Calw, Germany-born writer is famous for books like Siddhartha , Steppenwolf and The Glass Bead Game. Hesse’s written pieces often went beyond the surface of exploring trite self-discovery and explored more complex issues like spirituality and self-actualization. As a true intellectual himself, many of Hessse’s characters also mimicked his sharp mind. Besides books, Hesse also wrote essays, short-stories and poems. His work is available at Macmillan Publishers .

Famous quote: “I have been and still am a seeker, but I have ceased to question stars and books; I have begun to listen to the teaching my blood whispers to me.” — Hermann Hesse .

42. Gabriel García Márquez (1927-2014)

Colombian writer and Nobel prize winner Gabriel Garcia Marquez poses for a portrait on September 11, ... [+] 1990 in Paris.

Gabriel García Márquez, a Colombian novelist and Nobel laureate, is one of the most prominent authors of the 20th century and one of the greatest Latin American writers in history. Born in Aracataca, his magical realism-themed novels, such as One Hundred Years of Solitude, which earned him a Nobel Prize in Literature in 1982, and Love in the Time of Cholera, are just two pieces in her reportoire that have given him worldwide critical acclaim. He was primarily known for his short story expertise and his books can be found at HarperCollins Publishers .

Famous quote: “What matters in life is not what happens to you but what you remember and how you remember it.” — Gabriel García Márquez .

41. Thomas Hardy (1840-1928)

British author Thomas Hardy.

Stinsford, England-born Thomas Hardy was an novelist and poet who crafted a niche in his depictions of rural life and the struggles of ordinary, working-class people. His major works, including Tess of the d’Urbervilles and Far from the Madding Crowd , were pieces that centered themselves on themes of fate, suffering and the limitations of social class and structure. Hardy’s writing was always rich and textured, and his ability to capture the beauty and harshness of rural England made his work all the more appreciated. Hardy’s works are available through Penguin Random House .

Famous Quote: “A strong woman who recklessly throws away her strength is worse than a weak woman who has never had any strength to throw away.”― Thomas Hardy.

40. Margaret Atwood (1939- )

Margaret Atwood in Paris, 2014.

Margaret Atwood, a prolific Canadian poet and writer, is celebrated for her speculative fiction and mostly dystopian storylines. Her best-known work is top dystopian novel The Handmaid's Tale , which has become a symbol of feminist resistance and has also been adapted for TV for its powerful storytelling. With over 50 books written, Atwood’s writing, which also includes essays and poetry, is marked by its incisive social commentary and imaginative scope. Atwood’s work is available at Penguin Random House .

Famous quote: “ Storytelling is a very old human skill that gives us an evolutionary advantage. If you can tell young people how you kill an emu, acted out in song or dance, or that Uncle George was eaten by a croc over there, don't go there to swim, then those young people don't have to find out by trial and error.” - Margaret Atwood .

39. James Joyce (1882-1941)

James Joyce

Short story aficionado James Joyce is a prolific name in modernist literature and a name that resonates with many. His groundbreaking works, including Ulysses , A Portrait of the Artist as a Young Man and Dubliners , are acclaimed for their experimental techniques and close examination of the human psyche. The Dublin-born author refined his skill not only as a master storyteller but also as a credible designer of fictional characters that are deeply relatable. His work is available at Simon & Schuster .

Famous quote: “I am tomorrow, or some future day, what I establish today. I am today what I established yesterday or some previous day.” — James Joyce .

38. Edgar Allan Poe (1809-1849)

Edgar Allan Poe in a 19th century print.

Mystery and macabre guru Edgar Allan Poe was an American short-story writer, literary critic, poet and editor whose Gothic-themed writing caught the world’s attention. Born in Boston, Massachusetts, Poe is best known for his macabre-inclined stories like The Tell-Tale Heart , The Raven and The Fall of the House of Usher. In his personal life, Poe lived a troubled life that was rife with controversy and alleged alcoholism, which sometimes seemed to inspire his written work and its concise literary precision. Poe’s work can be found at Simon & Schuster .

Famous quote: “I have absolutely no pleasure in the stimulants in which I sometimes so madly indulge. It has not been in the pursuit of pleasure that I have periled life and reputation and reason. It has been the desperate attempt to escape from torturing memories, from a sense of insupportable loneliness and a dread of some strange impending doom.”― Edgar Allan Poe .

37. Herbert George Wells (1866-1946)

Herbert George Wells

Born in Bromley, England, Herbert George Wells is often regarded as the father of science fiction. His classic novels , such as The War of the Worlds , The Time Machine and The Invisible Man have inspired countless adaptations and continue to influence the literary landscape for emerging writers. Although Wells’ background as a child did not expose him to a lot of opportunities, his curiosity for learning helped to lay the foundation for his scholarly pursuits and, eventually, his writing career. He is often regarded as the leading literary spokesman for liberal optimism and much of his writing often analyzes themes of social justice and scientific ethics. His work is available at Penguin Random House .

Famous quote: “ If you fell down yesterday, stand up today.” — H.G. Wells .

36. Walt Whitman ( 1819-1892)

Walt Whitman in Camden, New Jersey, circa 1891.

Walt Whitman, born in West Hills, New York, is considered one of America’s most influential poets. At the age of 12, he had finished his formal education and taught himself how to read by visiting museums in Manhattan and Brooklyn, and frequently visiting the library. Whitman’s poetry was also a mold-breaker. It defied norms and conventional poetic writing forms, later earning him recognition as a trailblazer. This approach to writing was evident in the critically-acclaimed collection, Leaves of Grass , which celebrated democracy and nature with its free-verse style and caught the attention of readers, especially European readers. The collection went through nine editions throughout Whitman’s lifetime, each edition expanding and refining his vision of the American experience and becoming one of his most acclaimed projects. His work is available at Simon & Schuster .

Famous quote: “Resist much, obey little.” — Walt Whitman .

35. Maya Angelou (1928-2014)

American poet and author Maya Angelou gestures while speaking during an interview at her home.

Actress, activist, memoirist and poet Maya Angelou, born Marguerite Annie Johnson in St. Louis, was an American poet and civil rights activist whose literary acumen left a major imprint, not just on literature but on society. Angelou is best known for her series of seven autobiographies, which explore her childhood, early adult experiences, and rise to prominence. Angelou’s writing abandoned the trite for the raw, uncomfortable and challenging, often offering an unflinching honesty that made her writing both evocative and poignant. Her first autobiography, I Know Why the Caged Bird Sings , published in 1969, brought her international acclaim and recognition as a powerful advocate for Black women. Her poetry collections, such as And Still I Rise and Phenomenal Woman, also earned her critical acclaim. Her works are available at Penguin Random House .

Famous quote: “ You may write me down in history with your bitter, twisted lies. You may trod me in the very dirt, but still, like dust, I'll rise.” — Maya Angelou .

34. Charlotte Brontë (1816-1855)

Illustrated image of English novelist Charlotte Brontë, seated with a small book in hand.

Charlotte Brontë was born in Thornton, England, to an Anglican clergyman father and a stay-at-home mother. She is best known for her novel Jane Eyre , a groundbreaking work in the development of the novel form and in the portrayal of the inner life of a woman, much of which mimicked her childhood and adulthood. Initially published under the name Currer Bell, Jane Eyre was a massive success and is regarded as a seminal English classic. Brontë’s writing had an intense emotional gravity to it and an acute attention to detail in its characters. Her work is available at Simon & Schuster .

Famous quote: “I am no bird, and no net ensnares me; I am a free human being with an independent will.” — Charlotte Brontë .

33. George Eliot (Mary Ann Evans) (1819-1880)

English novelist Mary Anne Evans, who wrote under the nom de plume of George Eliot (1819 - 1880), ... [+] pictured at the age of 30, circa 1849.

George Eliot, the pen name of Mary Ann Evans, was an English author who was well-respected for detailed and psychologically nuanced novels. Through her writing, she invented and later developed the method of psychological analysis, a form that was not used at the time. Born in Nuneaton, Warwickshire, England, Evans grew up in a rural environment that influenced her later works. Her keen observations of village life, combined with her deep intellectual pursuits, allowed her to create some of the most enduring and insightful works of the 19th century. Some of her most significant works include The Mill on the Floss , Adam Bede and Silas Marner . Her work is available at HarperCollins Publishers .

Famous Quote: “Blessed is the man who, having nothing to say, abstains from giving us wordy evidence of the fact.” — George Eliot .

32. Joseph Conrad ( 1857-1924)

Black and white portrait of Joseph Conrad.

Joseph Conrad, born Józef Teodor Konrad Korzeniowski, was a Polish-British short story writer and novelist who achieved a lot of recognition for notable bodies of work like Heart of Darkness and Lord Jim, which focus on themes of colonialism, morality and angst. Conrad was born in Berdychiv, which was previously part of the Russian Empire at the time, and is now in Ukraine. His rich command of prose and ability to tell memorable stories in a way that felt personal to every reader who picked up his work were also a signature traits of his work. Conrad frequently examined themes of moral complexity and loneliness against the backdrop of the sea, and this was inspired by his days as a sailor. As a writer, Conrad had complex skill and striking insight into the human mind and its approach to the concept of good and evil. Conrad’s books are available at Simon & Schuster .

Famous Quote: “Those who read me know my conviction that the world, the temporal world, rests on a few very simple ideas; so simple that they must be as old as the hills. It rests, notably, among others, on the idea of Fidelity.”― Joseph Conrad .

31. C.S. Lewis (1898-1963)

Irish-born academic, writer and Christian apologist Clive Staples Lewis.

C.S Lewis, born Clive Staples Lewis in Belfast, Ireland, was a well-respected British writer, scholar, and theologian whose paradigm-shifting works have impacted both literature and global Christian thought. He is best known for his beloved children's series, The Chronicles of Narnia , a series of seven fantasy novels that have enchanted readers for generations, as well as his significant contributions to Christian apologetics and his scholarly works on medieval and Renaissance literature. Despite his broad intellectual pursuits, Lewis always remained humble, and this quality endeared him to readers and colleagues. Lewis’ works are available at HarperCollins Publishers .

Famous Quote: “A children's story that can only be enjoyed by children is not a good children's story in the slightest.” — C.S. Lewis .

30. Joseph Heller (1923-1999)

American author Joseph Heller sits at a desk in his home, East Hampton, Long Island, New York, 1984. ... [+]

Joseph Heller, born in Brooklyn, was another master of satire and dark comedy. His satirical novel Catch-22 became one of the most important books in the 20th century and even in pop-culture. Thanks to his sharp sense of humor, biting satire and apt narration, Heller positioned himself as one of America’s greats after Catch-22 . Other notable works by Heller include Something Happened and Good as Gold. He also wrote plays, screenplays and autobiographical works. His play We Bombed in New Haven critiques the Vietnam War, and his autobiography Now and Then: From Coney Island to Here is a memoir about his life and career. His work is available at Simon & Schuster .

Famous Quote: “Just because you're paranoid doesn't mean they aren't after you.”― Joseph Heller .

29. Stephen King (1947- )

Stephen King

Stephen King, famously known as the king of horror, was born in Portland, Maine, and is one of the most successful authors of contemporary times. King’s contributions to the horror genre as well as his extensive body of work, which spans novels, short stories, essays and screenplays, have made him a household name and an icon in popular culture. With over 60 novels and 200 short stories to his name, King’s ability to mix the gory supernatural with the everyday has thrilled and scared readers for decades. Some of his notable works include Carrie, Salem’s Lot and The Shining among others. King has written non-fiction, screenplays, and even columns and his work is available at Simon & Schuster .

Famous Quote: “Get busy living or get busy dying.”― Stephen King .

28. Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie (1977- )

Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie, Nigerian writer on the sidelines of a museum opening.

Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie, born in Enugu, Nigeria, is a critically acclaimed Nigerian writer known for her novels, poems, short stories and essays that explore themes of identity, race, migration, gender and the Nigerian postcolonial experience. In 1997, after initially studying medicine in Nsukka, Adichie decided to emigrate to the United States to pursue further education, which led to a change in her career trajectory. She completed her undergraduate studies in communication and political science at Eastern Connecticut State University, graduating with a B.A. in 2001 before later earning a master’s degree in creative writing from Johns Hopkins University. Adichie would later study African history at Yale University, and this would inform a lot of her written work. Adichie’s powerful storytelling and intelligent storytelling have made her a global voice in literature. Some of Adichie’s best work includes her debut novel, Purple Hibiscus, as well as Half of a Yellow Sun and Americanah, which received numerous accolades, including the National Book Critics Circle Award for Fiction in 2014. Her TED Talk, We Should All Be Feminists , has also been widely influential, leading to a book of the same name that has inspired discussions on feminism worldwide. Adichie’s works continue to resonate deeply with readers around the globe, addressing contemporary issues with nuance and depth. Her works are available at Penguin Random House .

Famous Quote: “The problem with gender is that it prescribes how we should be rather than recognizing how we are. Imagine how much happier we would be, how much freer to be our true individual selves, if we didn’t have the weight of gender expectations.”― Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie .

27. Alice Walker (1944- )

American author and poet Alice Walker.

Alice Walker is an American novelist, poet, and activist known for her powerful exploration of race, gender and social issues. Born in 1944 in Eatonton, Georgia, Walker grew up as the youngest of eight children in a family of sharecroppers, and a BB gun accident at the age eight left her blind in one eye. After the accident, her mother gave her a typewriter, allowing her to write instead of doing chores. Her upbringing in the racially segregated South has influenced her work, and her writing vividly depicts Black life, offering readers insights into the experiences and struggles that define the Black community. In 1983, The Color Purple won the Pulitzer Prize for Fiction and the National Book Award; it was adapted into a film in 1985. Walker has also been honored with the Lillian Smith Award and the Mahmoud Darwish Literary Prize for Fiction. Other notable works by Walker include Meridian, The Third Life of Grange Copeland and Possessing the Secret of Joy . Her work is available at HarperCollins Publishers .

Famous Quote: “The most common way people give up their power is by thinking they don't have any.”― Alice Walker .

26. Salman Rushdie (1947-)

Salman Rushdie receives the 2023 Peace Prize of the German book trade association at Paulskirche ... [+] church on October 22, 2023 in Frankfurt, Germany. (Photo by Thomas Lohnes/Getty Images)

Indian-born British-American professor and writer Salman Rushdie began his writing career as an ad copywriter, but later decided to start writing books. His first novel, Grimus, was published in 1975 and went relatively unnoticed, but his second novel, Midnight’s Children, in 1981, catapulted him to literary stardom. The novel won the Booker Prize and was later awarded the Booker of Bookers for the best novel to have won the Booker Prize in its first 25 years. But Rushdie’s literary rise would later be clouded with a lot of controversy. In his 1988 novel The Satanic Verses, he triggered outrage among some Muslims for his portrayal of the prophet Muhammad. The book’s release led to widespread protests, bans in several countries, and, most notably, a fatwa calling for his assassination issued by Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Khomeini in 1989. The fatwa forced Rushdie into hiding under police protection for many years, significantly impacting his personal and professional life. Rushdie, nevertheless, continued to be a target. During a 2022 speaking engagement in Chautauqua, New York, Rushdie was brutally stabbed while on stage, effectively blinding him in his right eye and causing him permanent nerve damage. The attack inspired his memoir, Knife . Rushdie is still alive and continues to write. Most of Rushdie’s writing style is steeped in magical allegory and fantasy, and his work is available at Penguin .

Famous Quote: What is freedom of expression? Without the freedom to offend, it ceases to exist.”― Salman Rushdie .

25. Flannery O’Connor (1925-1964)

Photo of American writer Flannery O'Connor.

An extraordinary ability to coordinate the grotesque and the profound to create unsettling and insightful stories defines Flannery O'Connor’s legacy. The Southern Gothic fiction guru was born in Savannah, Georgia, to a devout Catholic family, and this background would later significantly impact her writing. Many of O’Connor’s novels are centered around questions of morality and redemption through a religious lens. Some of O’Connor’s most notable works include A Good Man Is Hard to Find , Wise Blood, and Everything That Rises Must Converge . The Southern writer wrote novels and is renowned for her short stories, considered some of the best in American literature. At some point in her life, O’Connor also considered a career as a cartoonist but did not fully pursue that career track. Despite her short life, O’Connor’s works continue to resonate with readers for portraying the complex nature of faith and humanity. Her stories remain important for those seeking to understand the darker yet redeemable aspects of humans.

Famous quote: “I don't deserve any credit for turning the other cheek, as my tongue is always in it.” ― Flannery O’Connor .

24. Herman Melville (1819-1891)

Painting of Herman Melville by Joseph Eaton.

Herman Melville was an American novelist, short story writer and poet known for his deep and dark storylines that explored themes of fate and free will. The New York City-born writer grew up in a family that faced financial difficulties after his father’s death, prompting him to work various jobs. Melville attended the Albany Academy but left to work as a clerk, a teacher and eventually a sailor on whaling ships. These experiences particularly influenced his literary work, including being a sailor, which provided him with maritime experiences that would inspire much of his writing. His complex approach to the art of plotting, his symbolic depth, and his exploration of existential undertones characterize Melville’s writing style. His ancestors were among the Scottish and Dutch settlers of New York who played significant roles in the American Revolution and the competitive commercial and political arenas of the emerging nation. His grandfather, Major Thomas Melville, participated in the Boston Tea Party in 1773 and later became an importer in New York. Some of Herman Melville’s most influential works include Moby-Dick , Bartleby, the Scrivener and Billy Budd, Sailor , which was published posthumously in 1924. Melville’s books are available at Penguin Random House .

Famous quote: “It is better to fail in originality than to succeed in imitation.”― Herman Melville .

23. Leonardo da Vinci (1452-1519)

Portrait of Leonardo da Vinci by Lattanzio Querena.

Leonardo da Vinci was an Italian polymath whose primary interests included painting, sculpture, music, mathematics and literature. While he is primarily known as an artist and scientist, his literary contributions, including his notebooks filled with observations, sketches and musings, have also had a significant impact on the evolution of art and science for centuries. Leonardo ’s notebooks, such as the Codex Atlanticus and the Codex Leicester , reveal his incisive insights into anatomy, engineering and hydraulics. His meticulous records and innovative ideas have inspired generations of scientists and artists. Some of Vinci’s written works are available in places like the Louvre, the Biblioteca Nacional de España, and Biblioteca Ambrosiana in Milan, to name a few, but Vinci is primarily known for creating The Last Supper and his magnum opus, Mona Lisa. Leonardo’s holistic approach to artistic design and expression embodied the Renaissance humanist ideal and influenced public thought through its enduring relevance in both the arts and sciences, making him a classic icon.

Famous quote: “It had long since come to my attention that people of accomplishment rarely sat back and let things happen to them. They went out and happened to things.” ― Leonardo da Vinci .

22. Oscar Wilde (1854-1900)

Photo of Oscar Fingal O'Flahertie Wills Wilde sitting down.

Irish poet Oscar Wilde was a playwright, lecturer and novelist whose writing can be defined as witty and flamboyant. The Dublin-born writer became renowned for notable works like The Picture of Dorian Gray , The Importance of Being Earnest and An Ideal Husban d. Wilde’s enduring popularity can be credited to his precise exploration of aestheticism and ability to harmonize humor with social critiques, which allowed him to expose Victorian society’s specific hypocrisies and superficialities. Wilde was also a well-respected person in the Aesthetic Movement, which advocated art for art’s sake and emphasized beauty and sensory experiences over moral or narrative content. Despite facing personal and legal challenges, including a highly publicized trial and imprisonment for his homosexuality, Wilde’s legacy is defined by his literary brilliance and his aphoristic wit. His essays, such as The Critic as Artist and The Soul of Man under Socialism , also showed his intellectual depth and advocacy for individuality and artistic freedom, much of which was inspired by his extensive education at Trinity College, Dublin, Magdalen College and Oxford. His works are available at Penguin Random House .

Famous quote: “Be yourself; everyone else is already taken.” ― Oscar Wilde .

21. Johann Wolfgang von Goethe (1749-1832)

Johann Wolfgang von Goethe circa 1800.

Johann Wolfgang von Goethe was a German poet, playwright, novelist, scientist, statesman, theatre director and critic who is famous for his work on Faust, a Tragedy, a dramatic two-part play that is considered one of the finest works of German literature. Goethe’s contributions to literature, philosophy and science have made him a focal figure in European intellectual history, and the Frankfurt-born luminary is considered one of the greatest German literary figures of the modern era. Beyond Faust , Goethe’s also gained acclaim for works such as The Sorrows of Young Werther , which is credited with launching the Sturm und Drang literary movement, and Wilhelm Meister’s Apprenticeship , which became a center piece in the development of the Bildungsroman genre. Goethe’s poetry, including collections like West-östlicher Divan , showcases his wide-ranging palette and his engagement with diverse cultures and philosophies. His scientific work, particularly in the fields of botany and optics, demonstrated his holistic approach to understanding nature, culminating in influential texts like Metamorphosis of Plants and his theories on color, which he detailed in Theory of Colours . As a statesman, Goethe played an active role in the cultural and political life of Weimar, contributing to the Weimar Classicism movement alongside his friend Friedrich Schiller. His intellectual curiosity and interdisciplinary approach made him a polymath, deeply influencing the Romantic movement and shaping modern thought in both the humanities and sciences. Goethe’s legacy endures not only in his literary masterpieces but also in his profound impact on the intellectual and cultural developments of his time. Goethe’s works can be found at Penguin Random House .

Famous quote: “Daring ideas are like chessmen moved forward. They may be beaten, but they may start a winning game.”― Johann Wolfgang von Goethe .

20. Henry Wadsworth Longfellow (1807-1882)

Colorized photograph of American poet Henry Wadsworth Longfellow, late 1800s.

Born in Portland, Maine, Henry Wadsworth Longfellow was an American poet, professor and translator who is considered the most popular American poet in the 19th century. Longfellow’s early life and education gave him a solid foundation for his career and the intellectual acuity to compose the lyrical poetry that he did. After graduating from the Portland Academy, Longfellow studied at Bowdoin College, where he later became a professor upon his return from Europe, where he became proficient in Romance and Germanic languages. Longfellow was always skilled in translation. During his time in Europe, he honed his skills by immersing himself in various languages and literature that influenced his work. Some of his most famous works are The Song of Hiawatha, Evangeline , Tales of a Wayside Inn and Paul Revere’s Ride. Many of Longfellow’s poems were quite introspective, offering readers insight into human nature and all of its intricacies. As an educator, Longfellow was also a professor at Harvard College, where he influenced generations of students with his passion for literature and languages. Although Longfellow was primarily a poet, his impact on American literature extends beyond his poetry. He was instrumental in popularizing European literature in the United States through his translations of works like Dante’s Divine Comedy and he also wrote novels. His works are available at Penguin Random House .

Famous quote: “If we could read the secret history of our enemies, we should find in each man's life sorrow and suffering enough to disarm all hostility.”― Henry Wadsworth Longfellow .

19. Jules Verne (1828-1905)

Colorized photo of Jules Verne (1828-1905), French writer. (Photo by Boyer/Roger Viollet via Getty ... [+] Images)

France-born author Jules Verne is often regarded as one of the fathers of science fiction because of his sharp imagination and thorough research, which brought to life classics like 20,000 Leagues Under the Sea , Journey to the Center of the Earth and Around the World in 80 Days . His stories often focus on adventure, exploration and the possibilities of science, which reflected the technological advancements of his era. Verne did not always aspire to be a writer, and his father initially wanted him to become a lawyer, but when those plans failed, he worked at the Paris stock exchange before becoming a writer. Verne’s thorough descriptions of submarines, space travel and airships were visionary and inspired a generation of many scientists and inventors who also had an interest in writing. Apart from writing novels, Verne was also a playwright and poet, and despite early rejections and financial struggles, Verne’s determination made him one of the best-selling authors of all time, with his works translated into many languages and adapted into films, TV shows and theater. Verne’s books are available at Penguin Random House .

Famous quote: “Science, my lad, is made up of mistakes, but they are mistakes which it is useful to make, because they lead little by little to the truth.”― Jules Verne .

18. William Blake (1757-1827)

William Blake

William Blake was a London-born author who is considered one of the best English writers and painters of all time. Some of his well-respected works include Poetical Sketches, S ongs of Innocence, Songs of Experience and Visions of the Daughters of Albion. Apart from his work as an author, Blake was an engraver, artist, poet and visionary whose art was informed by his spiritual worldviews, and although he was not a was a religious seeker, he believed in the movement. During his lifetime, Blake’s work was often underestimated because his views and poetic style seemed to be ahead of his time, and also because he was regarded as being somewhat mentally unwell, because of behavior that would be thought of as only slightly eccentric today. Regardless, Blake would later become appreciated for his creativity and the philosophical tangents that guided his work. Blake’s works are available at Penguin Random House .

Famous quote: “It is easier to forgive an enemy than to forgive a friend.”― William Blake .

17. John Donne (1572-1631)

John Donne circa 1610.

John Donne was not just fascinating as a poet. His life was a colorful adventure that often seeped into his poems, which are considered landmark feats of language. Donne was born into a Roman Catholic family in London at a time when practicing Catholicism was illegal in England and despite of his impressive education at Oxford and Cambridge, he could not get a degree because, as a Catholic, he refused to take the Oath of allegiance to queen Elizabeth. Donne endured significant poverty for a major part of his lifetime and this led him to pour all of his energy and resources into writing about theology, canon law, anti-Catholic polemics and love poems. Donne’s poetic style, which had a lot of depth and intellectual rigor, was ahead of its time and not widely recognized during his life. In fact, his works Songs and Sonnets, Holy Sonnets and Anniversaries were all published after his death. His works are available at Canon Press .

Famous quote: “No man is an island, entire of itself; every man is a piece of the continent, a part of the main. If a clod be washed away by the sea, Europe is the less, as well as if a promontory were, as well as if a manor of thy friend's or of thine own were: any man's death diminishes me, because I am involved in mankind, and therefore never send to know for whom the bells tolls; it tolls for thee.”― John Donne .

16. Miguel de Cervantes (1547-1616)

Miguel de Cervantes Saavedra circa 1590.

Miguel de Cervantes was a Spanish novelist, playwright and poet best known for his classic Don Quixote , often considered the first modern novel in history. Many critics consider Cervantes to be a contemporary of Shakespeare and this title holds even more meaning since the literary giants died within a day of each other in April of 1616. Born in Alcalá de Henares, Spain, Cervantes’ life had all of the elements of a good movie: adventure, action, hardship and eventual success. He served as a soldier and was severely wounded at the Battle of Lepanto, losing the use of his left hand. In 1575, he was captured by Barbary pirates and spent five years as a slave in Algiers before being ransomed and returning to Spain where he would spend 25 years before finally striking gold with Don Quixote. His final novel Los trabajos de Persiles y Sigismunda , was published posthumously in 1616. His work is available at Simon & Schuster .

Famous quote: “The truth may be stretched thin, but it never breaks, and it always surfaces above lies, as oil floats on water.”― Miguel de Cervantes Saavedra .

15. Elena Ferrante (1943-)

Some of the books of Elena Ferrante at Piu Libri Piu Liberi Publishing Fair on December 6, 2017 in ... [+] Rome.

Elena Ferrante is the pseudonym of the Italian author known for L’amica Geniale , Delia’s Elevator and the Neapolitan Novels, a four-part series of fiction that has made her a leading, yet mysterious voice in modern-day fictional writing. Despite the worldwide acclaim of her work, Ferrante’s true identity is still a mystery and this has added to the intrigue and speculation surrounding her. The mysterious New York Times bestselling author has communicated through her publisher stating that anonymity is important for her writing process, allowing her to focus solely on her work without public scrutiny. Apart from novels, Ferrante has published several essays and interviews where she discusses her approach to writing and her views on literature and society, providing rare insights into her creative mind. Her writing has showcased her psychological insight, complex characters and exploration of friendship, identity and the struggles of women in a patriarchal society. Despite the speculation and attempts to uncover her identity, Ferrante has successfully maintained her privacy, letting her work speak for itself. In 2016, Time m agazine named Ferrante one of the 100 most influential people. Her books are available at Europa Editions .

Famous quote: “Words: with them you can do and undo as you please.”― Elena Ferrante .

14. Dante Alighieri (1265-1321)

Dante Alighieri circa early 14th Century.

Dante Alighieri was an Italian poet, politician and author who is regarded as one of the greatest poets of all time and his magnum opus, The Divine Comedy, was the primary piece that gained him a lot of popularity . A little-known fact about Dante is that he was heavily involved in the politics of Florence, which led to his exile. This exile influenced a lot of his writing, particularly in The Divine Comedy , in which he depicts his political enemies suffering in hell. Dante also wrote in the vernacular Italian rather than Latin, which helped standardize the Italian language and shape the cultural and literary landscape of Italy. Dante also authored several other important works such as De Monarchia , a treatise on secular and religious power, and Vita Nuova , which explores his idealized love for Beatrice Portinari and his poetic development. Alighieri’s writings also cover a wide range of topics, from ethics and politics to metaphysics. His writing also reflected a deep engagement with the philosophical and theological debates of his time, blending his political views with his spiritual and intellectual interests.​ His work is available at Simon & Schuster .

Famous quote: “The hottest places in hell are reserved for those who, in times of great moral crisis, maintain their neutrality.”― Dante Alighieri .

13. Plato (428-7 B.C.E - 348-7 B.C.E.)

Head of Plato circa B.C. 428 - B.C. 248.

Plato was a student of Socrates and the teacher of Aristotle, one of the most influential philosophers in Western history and a leader of Claslassical Antiquity. Aside from his contributions to philosophy, Plato founded the Academy in Athens, one of the earliest institutions of higher learning in the Western world, writing extensively on a variety of subjects, including politics, ethics and metaphysics. Most of his works often featured Socratic dialogues, a method of questioning designed to inspire critical thinking. His dialogues, such as The Republic , Phaedo and Symposium did not only examine political theory but also discussed the nature of reality, knowledge and the ideal state. Plato is often credited for the development of the Theory of Forms, a concept that proposes non-material abstract forms, or ideas, as the most accurate reality. This theory has had a lasting impact on subsequent philosophical thought. Also, his work Timaeus is one of the earliest detailed accounts of the natural world which combined philosophy and proto-science. Plato was heavily involved in politics extended beyond his theoretical writings because he intended to implement his philosophical ideas in the political realm, particularly in Syracuse, although these efforts were ultimately unsuccessful and led to his temporary imprisonment. His works are available at Hackett Publishing .

Famous quote: “We can easily forgive a child who is afraid of the dark; the real tragedy of life is when men are afraid of the light.”― Plato .

12. Sophocles (496 BCE- 406)

Sophocles was a Colonus-born playwright who was one of the three ancient Greek tragedians whose plays have survived. Sophocles is best known for Ajax, Oedipus Rex and Antigone. He served as a general in the Athenian military and was active in public service, which influenced his writings on justice and themes of duty in his plays. Sophocles was immenseley talented, which led him to win reportedly winning 24 out of 30 dramatic competitions he entered. Sophocles was also a pioneer in stagecraft, introducing innovations such as the use of a third actor , scene painting, and stage machinery to create more elaborate and visually striking productions. His emphasis on character development and psychological depth marked a significant advancement in the art of storytelling and Greek theater. His work is available at Simon & Schuster .

Famous quote: “The keenest sorrow is to recognize ourselves as the sole cause of all our adversities.”― Sophocles .

11. François Rabelais (Approximately 1483–94- 1553)

Poet Francois Rabelais. Canvas from a anonymous French painter. (Photo by Imagno/Getty Images)

François Rabelais was a French Renaissance writer and an avid traveler who is famed for his series of masterpieces called Gargantua and Pantagruel , which were published between 1532 and 1564. What many people don't know is that Rabelais was also a physician and a monk before he turned to writing. His works were often satirical and critical of the Church and society, which led to them being condemned by the Sorbonne, France’s prestigious institute for culture and academics. Rabelais’s background in medicine significantly influenced his writing, infusing his work with detailed anatomical and medical knowledge, often used to humorous effect. Rabelais was also known for his advocacy for education, echoing the intellectual spirit of the Renaissance. He promoted the idea that humans should be educated broadly in arts and sciences to develop fully. His works are available at Delphi Classics .

Famous quote: “there are more fools than wise men in all societies, and the larger party always gains the upper hand”― François Rabelais .

10. Geoffrey Chaucer (1343-1400)

Geoffrey Chaucer circa 1342-1400.

Geoffrey Chaucer is often hailed as the father of English literature, but a lesser-known fact is that Chaucer was also a diplomat and a civil servant, and this had a major impact on his life as a literary icon. Chaucer was born in London, but he traveled extensively across Europe, and like many writers, his travels influenced his literary works. His exposure to travel also inspired him to become fluent in several languages, including French, Italian and Latin, which added depth to his writing. Some of Chaucer’s notable works include The Canterbury Tales , which is considered one of the greatest poetic works in English. Chaucer’s career in public service was also impactful. As a civil servant, he held various positions, including courtier, diplomat and Member of Parliament, and many of his leadership roles gave him insight into the lives of ordinary people, much of which he vividly portrayed in his characters. His diplomatic missions took him to Italy, where he encountered the works of Dante, Petrarch and Boccaccio, profoundly influencing his own literary style and themes. His work is available at Simon & Schuster .

Famous quote: “Nothing Ventured, Nothing Gained”― Geoffrey Chaucer .

9. Virginia Woolf (1882-1941)

Virginia Woolf, circa 1902.

This list would be incomplete without Virginia Woolf. Woolf was born Adeline Virginia Stephen in London, and devoted an enormous part of her career to becoming a major figure in the modernist literary movement. Her stream-of-consciousness writing style as exemplified in iconic bodies of work like Mrs Dalloway and To the Lighthouse prove that Woolf was in a league of her own. The themes in her writing often included identity, time and the complexity of the human nature. Apart from novels, Woolf also explored essays, literary history, biographical writing and women’s issues. Woolf tragically died by suicide in 1941. Before her death, she founded her own publishing company, Hogarth Press, in 1917, but her work is available at Penguin Random House .

Famous quote: “A woman must have money and a room of her own if she is to write fiction.” — Virginia Woolf .

8. Fyodor Dostoevsky (1821-1881)

Fyodor Dostoevsky, circa 1865.

Russian novelist Fyodor Dostoevsky, born in Moscow, had an approach to writing that stood out for its psychological penetration and exploration of darker themes. The short story expert had a list of impressive and critically acclaimed works, including Crime and Punishment , The Brothers Karamazov, The Possessed and The Idiot, all of which explored the human soul and moral dilemmas. Dostoevsky suffered from epilepsy throughout his life, which he uses as a source of inspiration for his writing by frequently depicting characters with epilepsy, and exploring the associated mental and emotional struggles that came with the condition. Outside of fiction, Dostoevsky often wrote extensiovely in letters and diaries about the anxiety that his epileptic seizures caused. After suffering successive seizures that resulted in three pulmonary hemorrhages, Dostoevsky passed away in 1881. During his lifetime as a writer, his writing style employed the use of gothic elements, chaotic storytelling and freeform storytelling. His work is available at Simon & Schuster .

Famous quote: “Above all, don't lie to yourself. The man who lies to himself and listens to his own lie comes to a point that he cannot distinguish the truth within him, or around him, and so loses all respect for himself and for others. And having no respect, he ceases to love.” — Fyodor Dostoevsky .

7. Charles Dickens (1812-1870)

Illustration of British novelist Charles Dickens sitting in his study in Gads Hill near Rochester, ... [+] Kent, England, circa 1860.

After his interest in theater waned, Charles Dickens pivoted careers and chose to become a writer. It would be a decision that would earn him recognition as one of the greatest novelists of the Victorian era. Known for his vivid characters and memorable depictions of social class, injustice and hierarchy, the Portsmouth, England-born journalist’s ability to create a broad array of characters is nothing like any other writer on this list. Some classics that Dickens wrote include A Tale of Two Cities , Great Expectations and the world-renowned Oliver Twist . His works often highlighted the plight of the poor and critiqued the class system. Dickens also wrote plays and engaged in journalism and travel writing. His work is available at Simon & Schuster .

Famous quote: “It was the best of times, it was the worst of times, it was the age of wisdom, it was the age of foolishness, it was the epoch of belief, it was the epoch of incredulity, it was the season of light, it was the season of darkness, it was the spring of hope, it was the winter of despair.” — Charles Dickens .

6. Jane Austen (1775-1817)

Illustrated portrait of Jane Austen.

Jane Austen, born in Steventon, England, is famous not just for her iconic books Pride and Prejudice , Emma and Sense and Sensibility ; she was also one of the trailblazers of the British novel. Her approach to the development of modern characters and her ability to make ordinary people extraordinary are what made her writing so popular and widely read. Austen’s contributions were not just to British writing alone but to the entire global landscape of emerging writers, past and present. Her writing offered doses of wit and acute commentary on societal issues like class and social status. Austen’s writing has been regarded as fundamentally grounded in burlesque, parody and free indirect speech. Her work is available at Simon & Schuster .

Famous quote: “There are few people whom I really love, and still fewer of whom I think well. The more I see of the world, the more am I dissatisfied with it; and every day confirms my belief of the inconsistency of all human characters, and of the little dependence that can be placed on the appearance of merit or sense.” — Jane Austen.

5. Ernest Hemingway (1899-1961)

Ernest Hemingway

Ernest Hemingway , born in Oak Park, Illinois, was a prolific figure in American literature and a brilliant writer, hunter, sailor, former spy and explorer. He became known for his larger-than-life persona and distinctive writing style, which was marked by economical prose. Hemingway’s literary career was as adventurous as his personal life, and his works have always been a topic of discussion in literary circles and popular culture. Hemingway’s personal life, which influenced his writing, was as dramatic as his fiction. As an avid adventurer, he traveled extensively, engaging in big-game hunting in Africa, bullfighting in Spain and deep-sea fishing in the Caribbean. Some of his most notable works include For Whom the Bell Tolls, A Farewell to Arms and The Old Man and the Sea , which won the Pulitzer Prize for Fiction in 1953. Although he is best known for his fiction and non-fiction novels and short stories, he also wrote in other genres. His works are available at Simon & Schuster .

Famous Quote: “The world breaks everyone and afterward many are strong at the broken places.” — Ernest Hemingway .

4. Leo Tolstoy (1828-1910)

Writer Leo Tolstoy sitting at desk in his study.

Leo Tolstoy’s strength as a writer came alive through his exploration of philosophical themes and analysis. Born in Yasnaya Polyana, Russia, Tolstoy is best known for his iconic novels War and Peace and Anna Karenina . Most of his writing showcases his mastery of realistic fiction and ability to create out-of-the-box plots. As a well-respected figure in Russian literature, Tolstoy’s literary influence extends beyond his novels to his essays on religion, non-violence and education. His work is available at Simon & Schuster .

Famous quote: “Love is life. All, everything that I understand, I understand only because I love. Everything is, everything exists, only because I love. Everything is united by it alone. Love is God, and to die means that I, a particle of love, shall return to the general and eternal source.” — Leo Tolstoy .

3. Virgil (70 BCE- 19 BCE)

Detail of a mosaic of Virgil.

Virgil, born Publius Vergilius Maro, is known as one of the most well-respected poets of ancient Rome. Despite his humble beginnings, Virgil received an excellent education in Cremona, Milan, and finally Rome, where he studied rhetoric, medicine and astronomy before focusing on philosophy and poetry. Virgil is renowned as one of ancient Rome's greatest poets and his most notable works include The Eclogues , The Georgics and The Aeneid , which stands out as a monumental epic that weaves together the journey of the Trojan hero Aeneas with themes of fate, duty and heroism, ultimately glorifying Rome and Emperor Augustus. Despite his illustrious career, Virgil struggled with health issues and led a reclusive life. His philosophical leanings towards Epicureanism subtly influenced his literary themes. Virgil died before he could complete The Aeneid to his satisfaction and requested that the work be destroyed on his deathbed, a wish that Augustus famously overruled. Virgil's influence endured through the Middle Ages and the Renaissance, which made his legacy even stronger as an oundational figure in Western literature​. Virgil’s works are available at Simon & Schuster .

Famous Quote: “ Audaces fortuna iuvat (latin)- Fortune favors the bold.”― Virgil .

2. Homer (Around 8th century BC)

A colorized engraving of Homer with eyes superimposed.

Homer, the quintessential ancient Greek poet, is credited with composing The Iliad and The Odyssey , two legendary poems that are foundational works of ancient Greek literature and the Western literary tradition. The Iliad focuses on a quarrel between King Agamemnon and the warrior Achilles during the last year of the Trojan War, emphasizing themes of heroism, glory and the wrath of Achilles. The Odyssey follows the challenging ten-year journey of Odysseus, King of Ithaca, as he strives to return home after the fall of Troy. A major part of Homer’s mystique lies in the fact that very little is known about the Greek author’s life and most of his background is shrouded in mystique and mystery, it is generally believed he lived around the 8th or 9th century B.C. Multiple cities, including Smyrna, Chios and Ios, claim to be Homer’s birthplace, but that has been speculative. Homer is also one of the most influential authors in the widest sense, because of the two epics that he created that provided the basis of Greek education and culture throughout the Classical age. Homer’s works are available at Penguin Random House .

Famous Quote: “Out of sight,out of mind”― Homer .

1. William Shakespeare (1564-1616)

Colorized illustration (after a John Cochran print) of English playwright William Shakespeare.

There are a select few names that remain ever-present in history and never fade into the background. Names like Jesus Christ, The Beatles and Michael Jackson have a permanent presence on the world’s collective memory, and William Shakespeare falls into that timeless category as well. Born in Stratford-upon-Avon, England, is often regarded as the greatest writer in the English language and the world’s pre-eminent dramatist. His works include 38 plays, 154 sonnets and several narrative poems, all of which have had a permanent impact on literature and theater globally. Shakespeare’s repertoire does not only conform to a specific era, but has an such as enduring appeal that is relevant in works like Hamlet , Romeo and Juliet , Othello , King Lear and Macbeth continue to be performed and studied in institutions worldwide. Although Shakespeare’s early works were mainly comedies and histories, he is best known for his tragedies, which were written between 1601 and 1608 and explored complex themes of betrayal, love, ambition and the supernatural. His last plays, often categorized as romances or tragicomedies, include The Tempest , The Winter’s Tale and Cymbeline . A lesser-known fact about Shakespeare is that he was also a businessman and a shareholder in the Globe Theatre. His works are available at Penguin Random House .

Famous Quote: “We know what we are, but not what we may be.”― William Shakespeare .

Bottom Line

This list highlights 101 wordsmoths across history, eras and time, from William Shakespeare and Jane Austen to George Orwell and García Márquez. It celebrates their undeniable and untainted contributions to human thought, covering various genres and reminding readers not just of their ageless legacies, but their quintessential impact.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Who are top famous romance novelists.

Jane Austen is one of the most well-respected romance novelists , celebrated for her keen social commentary and timeless love stories. Austen's works are renowned for their insight into  romantic relationships and the societal norms of 19th-century England.

Danielle Steel is a best-selling author in the romance genre, with over 190 books to her name. Steel's ability to market stories that are relatable and compelling has made her a modern-day fan-favorite in the genre.

Who Are Notable Female Authors?

Toni Morrison is a Nobel Prize-winning author known for her impactful writings which explore race and impact. Her novels, such as Beloved and The Bluest Eye , explore the African American experience with depth and serious reflection.

Virginia Woolf is a key figure in modernist literature, known for her innovative narrative techniques and exploration of the inner lives of her characters. Her seminal works, including Mrs. Dalloway and To the Lighthouse , have influenced generations of writers and readers. 

Who Are Notable Black Authors?

Maya Angelou was a poet, memoirist and civil rights activist who autobiography I Know Why the Caged Bird Sings provided a seminal text into the exploration of identity, racism and resilience. Angelou's lyrical prose and powerful storytelling have left an incredible mark on literature and continue to inspire readers all over the world.

James Baldwin  was an influential writer and social critic whose writings honestly addressed the complex themes of race, sexuality and identity. His novels, which include Go Tell It on the Mountain and Giovanni's Room are celebrated for their eloquence and emotional depth. 

Who Are The Best 20th Century Novelists?

F. Scott Fitzgerald is best known for his novel The Great Gatsby , an important 20th century story about the American Dream gone awry. Fitzgerald's fictional, yet candid review of wealth, love and social change in the Jazz Age has made him a defining voice of 20th-century American literature.

George Orwell , author of 1984 and Animal Farm , is known for his acute critiques of totalitarianism and his honest criticism of social justice issues. Orwell's works are noted for their clarity, wit and relevance, making him one of the most important writers of the 20th century.

Who Are The Best 19th Century Novelists?

Charles Dickens is one of the most recognized writers of the 19th century who was known for his vivid characters and social commentary. Stories like A Tale of Two Cities , Great Expectations and Oliver Twist highlight Dickens' ability to combine compelling narratives with critiques of Victorian society.

Leo Tolstoy , the Russian novelist, is celebrated for his epic works War and Peace and Anna Karenina . Tolstoy's exploration of human experience, history, and morality in his novels has made him a cornerstone of world literature.

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‘inside out 2’ writer reflects on the anxiety of writing a movie about anxiety.

Dave Holstein, who faced immense pressure penning a sequel to the beloved 2015 hit, pens an essay reflecting on the personal and professional questions he grappled with along the way: "Where was Joy in all this?"

By Dave Holstein

Dave Holstein

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It’s a practical joke to ask a screenwriter to write about anxiety.

The very nature of the occupation is to walk around constantly asking yourself: What’s the worst thing that could possibly happen in this moment? To this character? To someone the character loves? To someone I love? To me?

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It had been a dream of mine to write at Pixar. Six years ago I had interviewed with director Dan Scanlon to write  Onward , but the timing didn’t work out when Showtime greenlit my Jim Carrey-starring series  Kidding.   Now, here I was again, passing beneath the giant Luxo lamp, getting the writer baton passed to me by the first movie’s author, the brilliant and incomparable Meg LeFauve, who had to leave the project to focus on a live action film she’d been working on with her husband. 

Not only would I be writing in her shadow but also the incredibly long shadow of a part cat, part elephant, part dolphin who cries candy. And although the Newtonian physics inside the world of Riley‘s mind are negotiable, perhaps the one scientific truth is that Bing Bong can only die once. 

So when I landed at Pixar’s campus in Emeryville there was a specific orange tang in my mouth — a flavor of anxiety created by looking up at this high bar and constantly wondering: Is the only successful version of this movie a somehow more perfect film that also has to clear $1 billion at the box office and also bring Pixar audiences back to theaters and also make you laugh and also cry and also answer a big philosophical question around minute 79 that you didn’t even know you needed? Also why is my hair turning gray? Will my six year old son watch it? Will he think it’s better than Cars? Can a movie truly compete with itself if you can only kill Richard Kind once? 

Those aren’t coat hangers hanging in Anxiety’s closet. Those are question marks. 

My father-in-law was the closest thing I had in this world to the character of Joy. He made friends in line at the grocery store. His kindness was Covid-contagious. His thick Maine accent and deep lexicon of regionally specific verbiage meant he could’ve easily pulled off a line like “jiminy mother-lovin toaster strudel” — even giving Amy Poehler a run for her money. 

We lost him in January after a long battle with mesothelioma — a lung cancer brought on by asbestos exposure from working in a steam plant in his 20s, an experience he said he would repeat if given the chance because it was how he met his wife. 

In the same 12 month period while writing this film I also lost the final three of my grandparents, including my grandmother, Audrey. The only reason I have a career in Hollywood is because 50 years ago she bought a house next door to the creator of  Family Ties  and asked if her sons could help on set. 

These are sad and stressful things, and perhaps too dark of a backdrop for writing the script for an animated family film — yes, even one for Pixar, whose siphoning of humanity’s tear ducts over a generation of heartfelt moviemaking could fill a sixth Great Lake. But they helped me answer the question I needed to answer. 

My original question of “Where is Joy in all this?” became “What happens to Joy as we get older?” Does Anxiety just take over? Does the dark stuff just add up and overwhelm you? Does the pressure to live up to the original film bury you under so many peppermints and gum drops? 

As we grow up, does Joy stop driving? Is the character’s pain just that? In the last movie she discovered the value of Sadness. In this movie, does she need to see the value of herself drifting away with time? But like, in a funny way? 

I remember looking over to our fearless director Kelsey Mann one day in the story room. He had more pressure on him than any of us – this was his first feature – and yet I never saw him crack once. I never saw him get angry or lose his patience or control. I saw him choose Joy. I saw him choose Joy every day. 

Now Joy isn’t always a choice. And Joy is definitely not an easy thing to create. But if the process of making this film has taught me anything it’s that she  begins  as a choice. And as we get older, Joy becomes more valuable, not less, because of the effort it takes to make that choice.

I hope audiences, young and old, experience this film without feeling the anxiety that it took to write, but rather the joy it took our entire team to complete. And I hope they leave the theater wanting to check-in with their own Joys. Their own Anxieties. And ask them how they’re doing.

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‘Kinds of Kindness’ Went to the Edge of New Orleans for an Anti-‘Big Easy’ Vibe

Bill desowitz.

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For “ Kinds of Kindness,” Yorgos Lanthimos’ twisted three-part anthology film set in alternate realities with a cast led by Jesse Plemons , Emma Stone , and Willem Dafoe, production designer Anthony Gasparro (“First Cow”) was tasked with transforming New Orleans into a nameless city by avoiding any iconic references to the Big Easy. That meant going on the outskirts — uptown, in the suburbs, or on the lakefront — to create an eccentric vibe.

In fact, the cult became crucial in the selection of New Orleans; it was the only city that offered the kind of secluded lakefront house that the director desired for a cult devoted to water. “That was the most difficult location to find,” Gasparro told IndieWire. “But once we first saw that house, we decided that we were going to film in New Orleans. I always felt we were shooting on the edge of New Orleans, which I quite like in general as a way to shoot a city.

“Because it was so location dependent, it was really about just discovering and connecting with the locations that were going to anchor each story and then working around the satellite ones, and then figuring out how that all works story by story. We shot it first story, second story, third story because it really came down to people’s haircuts because we didn’t want to use wigs.”

‘The Death of R.M.F.’

Raymond needed a large modernist house in keeping with his eccentric and controlling nature, but there were few to be found and none of the homeowners were cooperative. “So we pivoted to a great manor house,” Gasparro said. “And we took that and completely redressed it and kind of made it something that would be worthy of a person that takes themselves quite seriously with their art and ambitions.

For Robert, who has made a Faustian pact with Raymond in exchange for a comfortable house, they channeled what the control freak deemed suitable for him. “It was just a strange house on a defunct golf course,” added Gasparro. “I wasn’t initially that crazy about that house. We had actually prepped another house that I would have also loved to shot in. But, at the last minute, the homeowner kind of got a little sleazy on us and demanded hundreds of thousands of dollars.

“But the house we chose had such a peculiar aesthetic to it,” he continued. “And we intentionally made all the furnishings and everything in that house a little bit off. The utensils, the art gallery paintings, the injured sports memorabilia that Raymond gave Robert [particularly John McEnroe’s torn racket and Ayrton Senna’s charred racing helmet]. I thought not only it served the first story, it served the three other stories by setting up the tone of these peculiar alternate realities.”

‘R.M.F. Is Flying’

“And I love it because I was imagining that Liz perhaps inherited it from her family and became a second home where she and Dan lived,” he added. “And it became a great backdrop for all the strangeness that was about to unfold.” This was due to Dan’s paranoia that Liz was not his wife but some sort of bizarre twin. Daniel cruelly forces Liz to prove her devotion through self-mutilation.

“The aesthetic had a lot of bamboo roller shades that we put up that also made the light kind of warm and strange,” said Gasparro. “And I think it worked perfectly for who those characters were. She’s a marine biologist who didn’t make a ton of money, and he’s a cop. So I think financially it made sense they would live somewhere like that. And she obviously liked the outdoors, so it lent itself to that. And also what I liked quite a bit was that it was such a different interior and exterior than anything else that we’ve seen in the film.”

‘R.M.F. Eats a Sandwich’

Inside, they removed all the furnishings and created a restaurant-style cooking area, as well as a military barracks-type area for fellow cult members. Omi’s bedroom also stood out for its accordion doors, which the director was a fan of. “I got to do just like a ton of work to create this water cult,” continued Gasparro. “And that was one of the more enjoyable locations for the art department.”

Meanwhile, the motel where Stone’s Emily and Plemons’ Andrew stay was not an easy find, but it stood out as part of the strange suburbia. “We must have scouted 20 motels and none of them felt right,” Gasparro added. “Somehow we found that last one and it feels like the edge of the city, kind of a remote part of New Orleans. And once we found it, it was absolutely perfect. We cleared out the parking lot and we brought in the boat that was on a trailer. We did some modification inside the motel rooms, but, for the most part, it was ready to go.” It was yet another reason why this was the production designer’s favorite story in terms of aesthetics.

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By Susan M. Carini 04G  June 26, 2024

Sarah Blanton, professor of physical therapy and founding editor of the Journal of Humanities in Rehabilitation, has demonstrated the value of the humanities to the health professions across a 34-year Emory career.

It was raining that Tuesday and the University of Virginia (UVA) junior didn’t know if she felt all that motivated to go to the internship fair taking place that evening.

“Choosing to go changed my life,” says Sarah Blanton , professor in the Department of Rehabilitation Medicine , founding editor of the Journal of Humanities in Rehabilitation and Fellow of the National Academy of Practice in Physical Therapy . 

A biology major at UVA, Blanton had determined that she did not want to attend medical school. At the internship fair, Blanton did two things of consequence: she signed up for a physical therapy (PT)/occupational therapy (OT) internship and then glanced over at the hospice table.

It was deserted. “Nobody was stopping by there. But I was willing to know more, having grown up with dinner-table conversations around hospice,” Blanton says. 

The child of a general surgeon father and nurse mother, Blanton watched her mother help start the first hospice program in Bristol, Tennessee. Much later, as her mother succumbed to lung cancer, she lived out her final days there, with the facility naming both a room and scholarship in her honor. “And while my father was a general surgeon,” Blanton notes, “he was called upon to do a lot of palliative care by virtue of essentially serving as the primary care provider for so many patients.” 

That hospice internship “led me to PT,” Blanton says. “I was just a volunteer, but I would sit with patients and their families. You are so busy in your fourth year of college, but when I was with those patients, everything fell away and I was never more fully present than in those moments. That was when I thought: I want work that does this. It grounded me and always felt like a sacred place.”

While at UVA, Blanton was leaving a photography class and in a “deep discussion about — what else? — death and dying” and did not see the car approaching that would graze her, tearing the meniscus in her right knee. 

That was her first patient experience of physical therapy, but there would be more — each one incredibly instructive to the healer she would become. Two years into her professional practice, she hurt her back, which would continue to require intermittent therapy.

The country mouse makes a home in Atlanta

Blanton went on to earn a master’s and doctorate of physical therapy at Emory, but for a number of years, Atlanta did not feel like home. Raised on South Holston Lake in Upper East Tennessee — a reservoir cradled in the Appalachian Mountains — Blanton had always reveled in the peace and spiritual uplift the area provided. The beauty she saw in those spaces inspired her to become an award-winning photographer.

“I love so many different geographies, but we tend to come back to where we have that sense of place and belonging,” she says.

As she celebrates 34 years at Emory, first as a student and then as a faculty member, Blanton observes: “I have been in Atlanta longer than I have been anywhere, but I still feel like a country mouse, having grown up in a small town.” 

In 2014, for the On Being project, Blanton wrote an essay about South Holston Lake titled “Thin Places and the Transforming Presence of Beauty,” which also features her photography.

She quotes the former Harvard theologian Peter Gomes, who explained the concept of “thin places”: “There is in Celtic mythology the notion of ‘thin places’ in the universe where the visible and the invisible world come into their closest proximity. Mountains and rivers are particularly favored as thin places. … But perhaps the ultimate of these thin places in the human condition are the experiences people are likely to have as they encounter suffering, joy and mystery.”

Throughout her career and life, Blanton has embraced these thin places. Neurorehabilitation, her specialty within PT, allows her to express the values — gratitude, curiosity, kindness, sincerity in listening and willingness to be vulnerable — that have always guided her.

“Neurorehabilitation is a deep spiritual place where you are meeting people in their times of vulnerability, and you find them so authentic as you accompany them on that journey. It is very much a privilege. Walking down the hall in Emory’s rehabilitation hospital, I would always remind myself that everyone in these rooms is someone whose life has been changed forever and how quickly that can happen to any of us,” she says. 

Beyond having been a PT patient herself, she came to know how it feels to be a family member of someone undergoing therapy. Later in her father’s life, he needed spinal surgery, which Blanton arranged for in Atlanta. During the surgery, he suffered a stroke and was in rehabilitation for a month.

“My caregiving work was shaped by my clinical experience, and the former was really shaped by being a carepartner for my dad — working with my family and recognizing how many people never really asked us how we were doing. That is why my goal in research has always been to foster family-integrated care,” Blanton says.

According to the scholarly literature, those with disabilities represent the world’s largest minority group. At every turn, Blanton has fought against a historically ableist view of disability and rehabilitation, believing that “it is through the engagement of the humanities that we truly transform the practice of physical therapy.”

The journal awards the scholarship named for Blanton’s father at playwright Maggie Edson’s home. (L to R) Linda Merrill, Emory art history professor; Edson; Laura Otis, Emory English professor emerita; 2016 recipient Stephanie Larson; Sarah Blanton; Jamie Larson; and Emma Goldberg, the physical therapy graduate student who won in 2017.

Tirelessly pursuing a better lived experience for patients

After earning her master’s in PT in 1992, Blanton worked at Emory Rehabilitation Hospital from 1992-2000, at which point a tantalizing offer came from Steven Wolf , now professor emeritus of rehabilitation medicine, a towering figure in the field. Groundbreaking research in neuroplasticity revealed a greater understanding of how the brain recovers after a stroke. Wolf asked Blanton to join a landmark study of constraint-induced movement therapy; this was to be the first multisite clinical trial in stroke rehabilitation. 

The idea behind constraint-induced movement therapy was to restrain, by the use of a soft mitt, the stronger arm following stroke so patients would be forced to use the weaker arm for daily activities. “To that point, it was possible to think of PT as a kind of black box, highly dependent on personalized care. What was so exciting was the possibility of creating a standardized protocol that would be easy to evaluate,” Blanton says.

Nonetheless, leaving her work as a clinician at Emory Rehabilitation Hospital was “a big deal for me because I loved being with patients,” Blanton reflects. She made that devotion to patients part of the terms on which she joined, signing on as a research coordinator to help with patient recruitment and to learn how to adapt the protocol to the clinic. As interest in constraint-induced therapy grew, Blanton and Wolf joined forces to offer instructional courses internationally. 

All told, Blanton would earn her doctorate of physical therapy in 1994 and spend six years with the study, then go on to become a Division of Physical Therapy faculty member in 2006. Reflecting on what she learned in the study, Blanton conceived an avenue for her own research. 

“What if I build upon the strategies I used with family members and make it a more structured intervention?” she wondered. “I could teach family members about the principles of neuroplasticity. I also could guide them to what are called ‘autonomy-supportive’ language strategies — that is, using language to help someone stay motivated.” 

To blunt what Blanton terms the “particularly pernicious impact of stroke on approximately 4.8 million survivors in the U.S. who require assistance from often untrained and ill-prepared family members,” she developed a theory-based, family-centered innovation called Carepartner and Collaborative Integrated Therapy (CARE-CITE). 

Employing an interprofessional team that combines findings from rehabilitation therapy and nursing research, CARE-CITE is designed to enhance the therapeutic process by positively engaging “carepartners”— a term Blanton chose instead of “caregiver” to more accurately reflect the collaborative role she recommends for family members in the home setting. 

CARE-CITE guides the carepartner in collaborative goal setting and providing autonomy support for the stroke survivor in order to promote motivation and creative problem-solving to improve arm and hand function. 

“We theorize that improving self-management will lead to improvements in both carepartner and stroke survivor health outcomes. This family-centered intervention is a key advancement, moving the rehabilitation field toward stroke care that effectively addresses both survivor and carepartner needs,” Blanton says.

Gail Jensen , a professor of physical therapy at Creighton University, recalls meeting Blanton more than 10 years ago and finding herself “so impressed with not only Sarah’s clinical expertise but the depth of her understanding and continued exploration of the lived experiences of her patients.” 

This shot of an old truck in Taos, New Mexico, caught Blanton’s eye; it placed third in the 2010 Emory Arts Competition.

Celebrating the arts in the sciences: a family tradition

An abiding joy of Blanton’s life has been the creativity she has encountered — and engendered.

“The appreciation of the arts and humanities in our family was always so rich,” Blanton recalls, and credits her father “for his humanistic approach to patient care and compassion toward others. His deep knowledge of literature, poetry, religion and music infused his work and his relationship with his patients.” 

Further inspiration came from Blanton’s high school biology teacher, who not only kindled her lifelong commitment to the discipline but also taught her to use a darkroom. In her senior year, her photography portfolio earned a Scholastic Art & Writing Award , one of the oldest arts competitions in the country for high schoolers. It puts Blanton in good company: Stephen King and other famous artists have won the award over the years. 

And she has never stopped sharing how she sees the world. In 2010, a photograph Blanton shot — “Through a Glass Darkly” — received third place in the Emory Arts Competition.

“That Scholastic Art & Writing award gave me a sense of self-efficacy. My dad was a prominent figure in Bristol, a Renaissance man. This was one way that I was able to carve out my own unique identity,” Blanton observes.

It should be no surprise that this same word surfaces when commentators describe Blanton’s impact. “Sarah is truly ‘renaissance’ — she brings our worlds together better than any of us. She is a master clinician, a competent clinical researcher and an extraordinary educator who is able to engage students in much-needed deeper reflection about their learning,” says Jensen.

A treasured space, and one featured frequently in Blanton’s photography, is South Holston Lake, where she was raised.

Bringing to life the Journal of Humanities in Rehabilitation

In partnership with the Emory Center for Digital Scholarship (ECDS), Blanton in 2014 established the JHR — the first peer-reviewed, interdisciplinary journal dedicated to the integration of humanities in rehabilitation sciences and the first rehabilitation journal to collaborate with  international disability scholars.  

Blanton saw the journal as “occupying the powerful and transformative intersection of arts and sciences fully in alignment with the values expressed in the One Emory Strategic Framework and the Emory Initiative for Arts and Humanistic Inquiry .”

Disability rights activists coined the slogan “Nothing about us without us” during the 1990s. Supporting this goal, the JHR is a rare scientific journal that provides a platform for the co-creation of content with and for people with disabilities, their carepartners and the rehabilitation community. 

“With the JHR,” says Jensen, a member of the editorial advisory board, “Sarah brings forward, with great respect, the voices of patients, families and caregivers. I do not know of another journal that does that. For those of us in PT, the journal is our ‘north star’ in providing a much-needed understanding of the human condition; it also makes us better at working together for the well-being of our patients.”

By adopting a transdisciplinary approach to integrate humanities, disability studies and rehabilitation, along with fostering collaborative community partnerships, the JHR addresses the complex and pervasive health inequities faced by the disability community.

“Our next goal,” says Blanton, “is to find funding to enable the journal to be the first publication to engage members from the disability community as editorial staff, providing an opportunity for decision-making and power-sharing to help shape content, evaluate accessibility and broaden readership to more diverse communities.”

A rich outlet for students and colleagues

“JHR is a perfect example of the kind of interdisciplinary and public scholarship that we love to support,” says Alex Cors , digital scholarship specialist at ECDS. “By bringing together scholars and practitioners from different fields and making their work accessible for a broad audience through open-access web publishing, we can help Sarah and her amazing team get their work out to as many interested readers as possible.”

The journal’s collaboration with ECDS is ongoing, with students being prime beneficiaries. Normally, two students work together, one coming from physical therapy and one from ECDS.

“The physical therapy students are subject matter experts whose insights are invaluable. From our side, we train the physical therapy students on all aspects of digital scholarship and digital publishing,” Cors says. “We have had great experiences with this model, and Sarah is committed to continuing this exchange of knowledge and skills.” 

Stephanie Larson earned her doctorate in English and completed a certificate in bioethics here. She sought work on the JHR after “reading the journal’s incredibly impressive inaugural issue.” Still early in her doctoral training when she and Blanton first met, Larson confesses to being a bit nervous.

“Sarah treated me as though she were meeting a friend and colleague, and the invaluable mentorship that followed has exemplified the humanistic values she has spearheaded,” Larson says. For Blanton, the praise must flow both ways because, as she notes, “Stephanie had a significant role in shaping the journal.”

The Frank S. Blanton Jr., MD Humanities in Rehabilitation Scholarship Fund was established in 2016 in honor of Blanton’s father, and the scholarship has been awarded to eight students, Larson among them.

“Although we never met, I feel I have come to know Sarah’s father through the life Sarah has led as a mentor, researcher, clinician and advocate for the humanities. What’s remarkable about the scholarship is that it isn’t just a title or award but an invitation to a community, one that for me has led to lifelong connections.”

Sarah Caston knows Blanton as a former student, now colleague, and cites “the tremendous impact she has had on me, both personally and professionally. She is just one of those rare humans who, along with her brilliance and creativity, possesses a genuinely kind and humble spirit.”

Blanton captured this image at Debordieu Beach in South Carolina — a spot her family would visit each summer. She and her brother fell under the spell of this particular tree, which she would photograph on every trip.

Staying — and still striving for disability justice 

Though occasionally daydreaming about a return to South Holston Lake or the possible joy of life in Boulder, Colorado, or Asheville, North Carolina, Blanton stays in the big city because of the strength of her relationships with colleagues, students, patients and family members.

“I have flourished at Emory in response to all those who taught me the value of fierce moral courage, visionary leadership, compassion-based clinical care and novel, transdisciplinary ways of thinking. While the academy is often criticized for operating in silos, I have found that a sincere pursuit of humanism through my service, teaching and research has allowed me to transcend those barriers and build collaborative relationships across the university,” she says.

Above all else, she feels gratitude. “As we are working toward being healers, we are being healed ourselves,” Blanton notes.

Concludes her colleague Marie Johanson: “Sarah brings compassion, a finely tuned ear, humility, humor and intellect, and she reminds us that we are both students and teachers on our journeys through life.”

• Emory Rehabilitation Hospital
• Health Sciences Research
• School of Medicine

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• You may satisfy the conditions in Section   3(a)(1)   in any reasonable manner based on the medium, means, and context in which You Share the Licensed Material. For example, it may be reasonable to satisfy the conditions by providing a URI or hyperlink to a resource that includes the required information.
• If requested by the Licensor, You must remove any of the information required by Section   3(a)(1)(A)   to the extent reasonably practicable.

Section 4 – Sui Generis Database Rights.

Where the Licensed Rights include Sui Generis Database Rights that apply to Your use of the Licensed Material:

• for the avoidance of doubt, Section   2(a)(1)   grants You the right to extract, reuse, reproduce, and Share all or a substantial portion of the contents of the database, provided You do not Share Adapted Material;
• if You include all or a substantial portion of the database contents in a database in which You have Sui Generis Database Rights, then the database in which You have Sui Generis Database Rights (but not its individual contents) is Adapted Material; and
• You must comply with the conditions in Section   3(a)   if You Share all or a substantial portion of the contents of the database.

Section 5 – Disclaimer of Warranties and Limitation of Liability.

• Unless otherwise separately undertaken by the Licensor, to the extent possible, the Licensor offers the Licensed Material as-is and as-available, and makes no representations or warranties of any kind concerning the Licensed Material, whether express, implied, statutory, or other. This includes, without limitation, warranties of title, merchantability, fitness for a particular purpose, non-infringement, absence of latent or other defects, accuracy, or the presence or absence of errors, whether or not known or discoverable. Where disclaimers of warranties are not allowed in full or in part, this disclaimer may not apply to You.
• To the extent possible, in no event will the Licensor be liable to You on any legal theory (including, without limitation, negligence) or otherwise for any direct, special, indirect, incidental, consequential, punitive, exemplary, or other losses, costs, expenses, or damages arising out of this Public License or use of the Licensed Material, even if the Licensor has been advised of the possibility of such losses, costs, expenses, or damages. Where a limitation of liability is not allowed in full or in part, this limitation may not apply to You.
• The disclaimer of warranties and limitation of liability provided above shall be interpreted in a manner that, to the extent possible, most closely approximates an absolute disclaimer and waiver of all liability.

Section 6 – Term and Termination.

• This Public License applies for the term of the Copyright and Similar Rights licensed here. However, if You fail to comply with this Public License, then Your rights under this Public License terminate automatically.

Where Your right to use the Licensed Material has terminated under Section   6(a) , it reinstates:

• automatically as of the date the violation is cured, provided it is cured within 30 days of Your discovery of the violation; or
• upon express reinstatement by the Licensor.
• For the avoidance of doubt, the Licensor may also offer the Licensed Material under separate terms or conditions or stop distributing the Licensed Material at any time; however, doing so will not terminate this Public License.
• Sections   1 ,   5 ,   6 ,   7 , and   8   survive termination of this Public License.

Section 7 – Other Terms and Conditions.

• The Licensor shall not be bound by any additional or different terms or conditions communicated by You unless expressly agreed.
• Any arrangements, understandings, or agreements regarding the Licensed Material not stated herein are separate from and independent of the terms and conditions of this Public License.

Section 8 – Interpretation.

• For the avoidance of doubt, this Public License does not, and shall not be interpreted to, reduce, limit, restrict, or impose conditions on any use of the Licensed Material that could lawfully be made without permission under this Public License.
• To the extent possible, if any provision of this Public License is deemed unenforceable, it shall be automatically reformed to the minimum extent necessary to make it enforceable. If the provision cannot be reformed, it shall be severed from this Public License without affecting the enforceability of the remaining terms and conditions.
• No term or condition of this Public License will be waived and no failure to comply consented to unless expressly agreed to by the Licensor.
• Nothing in this Public License constitutes or may be interpreted as a limitation upon, or waiver of, any privileges and immunities that apply to the Licensor or You, including from the legal processes of any jurisdiction or authority.

Creative Commons is not a party to its public licenses. Notwithstanding, Creative Commons may elect to apply one of its public licenses to material it publishes and in those instances will be considered the “Licensor.” The text of the Creative Commons public licenses is dedicated to the public domain under the   CC0 Public Domain Dedication . Except for the limited purpose of indicating that material is shared under a Creative Commons public license or as otherwise permitted by the Creative Commons policies published at   creativecommons.org/policies , Creative Commons does not authorize the use of the trademark “Creative Commons” or any other trademark or logo of Creative Commons without its prior written consent including, without limitation, in connection with any unauthorized modifications to any of its public licenses or any other arrangements, understandings, or agreements concerning use of licensed material. For the avoidance of doubt, this paragraph does not form part of the public licenses.