1918 – Edmond Rostand, French poet and playwright (b. 1868)

Edmond Rostand, a luminary of French literature, was not merely a playwright; he was a poet who infused his works with an unparalleled fervor for romance and heroism. Born in the bustling streets of Marseille in 1868, Rostand's early years were steeped in creativity and the arts. Perhaps it was the sun-soaked Mediterranean air or the whispers of ancient history that shaped his poetic soul. By the time he reached his teenage years, it became evident that he possessed an extraordinary talent for weaving words into captivating stories.

His career blossomed in an era where theater was undergoing significant transformation. In 1897, amidst societal unrest and shifting cultural tides, Rostand unveiled his masterpiece "Cyrano de Bergerac" a play that would etch itself into the annals of dramatic literature forever. The story revolves around Cyrano, a man with an extraordinary intellect and wit but cursed with an oversized nose that clouds his chances at love. Ironically, despite being a dazzling swordsman and eloquent wordsmith, Cyrano's insecurities lead him to secretly help another woo the woman he loves.

This narrative choice resonated deeply with audiences; they saw reflections of their own vulnerabilities within Cyrano's tragic yet noble character. However, what made "Cyrano de Bergerac" truly unforgettable were its lyrical verses Rostand wielded language like a painter does color on canvas! He didn't just tell a story; he crafted sonnets filled with passion and longing.

Despite this initial success in theater, Rostand faced considerable challenges as well. The turn of the century brought about increased competition from avant-garde movements like Symbolism and Surrealism a threat to traditional forms of storytelling that Rostand cherished so dearly. Who knows how many nights he spent tossing restlessly in bed as new ideas swirled through his mind? Yet rather than succumb to despair or mimic emerging trends, he doubled down on what made him unique: romantic ideals suffused with human emotion!

In 1900 came "L’Aiglon," another notable work centered around Prince Louis-Napoleon’s life the son of Napoleon Bonaparte! Here again we see Rostand grapple with themes larger than life: destiny versus free will! Critics marveled at how seamlessly he'd blended historical fact with imaginative storytelling a hallmark characteristic of great playwrights throughout history.

However, despite all these achievements and arguably some growing accolades Rostand never sought fame for its own sake... Instead? He appeared more interested in capturing fleeting moments through theatrical expression! One can imagine him pacing back-and-forth across dimly lit rooms late at night while dreaming up lush characters who would come alive beneath gilded chandeliers!

The world continued to change rapidly during this period: World War I loomed ominously over Europe by 1914! For many artists like Rostand though... Life went on not simply as if nothing had happened but rather infusing every scene filled-with tension & uncertainty!

Ironically enough? His works provided solace amid chaos they acted almost like shields against sorrowful realities outside theater walls because audiences found refuge among poetic lines echoing sentiments shared collectively across nations fighting side-by-side on battlefields far away!