Andrew Marvell survives the English Civil War
On this day in 1621 the English poet Andrew Marvell was born. He was a clever and educated man who managed successfully to steer his... Read More
Vincent Van Gogh painted what he felt
On this day in 1853 the Dutch painter Vincent Van Gogh was born. A recent biography suggested that his death at the age of 37... Read More
Joyce Cary, writer and painter
On this day in 1957 the Anglo Irish writer Joyce Cary died. Cary originally wanted to be a painter but realised that he would never... Read More
Robert-Francois Damiens has a tough day
On this day in 1757 the unsuccessful regicide Robert-François Damiens was executed. Damiens was a simple man from Arras who attacked the French King Louis... Read More
Mies van der Rohe influences modern architecture
On this day in 1886 the German / American architect Mies van der Rohe was born. One of the founders of modernistic architecture together with... Read More
Gregory Corso’s admiration for Shelley
On this day in 1930 American poet Gregory Corso was born. He was a member of the Beat Generation and a particular friend of Allen... Read More
Mary Webb’s stories of rustic discomfort
On this day in 1881 the novelist Mary Webb was born. Brought up in Shropshire, her stories are reminiscent in plot and style of her... Read More