National Biographer’s Day 2023: National Biographer’s Day is observed annually on May 16 to commemorate a momentous occasion. The famous poet, essayist, literary critic, editor, and lexicographer Samuel Johnson and his biographer James Boswell met for the first time. Essentially, a biography is a genre consisting of a written account of another person’s existence. Did you realise that biographies have existed since the time of the Roman Empire?
HISTORY OF NATIONAL BIOGRAPHER’S DAY
On May 16, 1750, Samuel Johnson, himself a biographer, met his biographer James Boswell in London, England. The greatest biographers, according to Johnson, ate, drank, and maintained social relations with the person they were writing about.
The encounter between Johnson and Boswell ultimately resulted in the publication of one of the most celebrated biographies in English literature. The research and narrative style of James Boswell set the standard for biographers, as his biography of Johnson was regarded as one of the finest in the English language.
However, it is believed that biographies existed long before that meeting. One of the earliest biographies was believed to have been published during the Roman Empire. Biography began to emerge in the 1800s and attained its modern form at the turn of the 20th century. Following this, biographies experienced a period of stagnation, while autobiographies became more popular and have remained pertinent to this day in the form of memoirs.
Biographies continue to be an important source of information for students, academics, and readers equally. Biographies are extremely popular because they offer a comprehensive look at a person’s life. In addition, biographies have evolved and found a foothold in the form of multimedia in recent years. Documentary biographical films, commercial films, etc. are included.
It is only fitting that there is a day dedicated to honouring biographers who painstakingly chronicle a person’s life in such a way that it touches the hearts of its readers.
HOW TO Observe National Biography Day
Examine a biography.
National Biographer’s Day is an appropriate occasion to read a biography. Or, resume the biography that you have been unable to complete. Consider a person about whom you would like to learn more, and determine if a biography has been written about them.
Compose a biography.
Why not attempt to compose your own biography? You can refer to other biographies for examples of style, organisation, nuances, etc. Consider a person who inspires you and whose story should be shared with others. This is something you can do for yourself; you are not required to have it published.
Engage in a non-fiction book society.
There are numerous book societies available. On National Biographer’s Day, you can join a non-fiction book club and read a biography with them. At the conclusion of the reading session, book clubs discuss the books, which is not only a wonderful way to express your opinions but also to gain a variety of perspectives on a biography.
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5 SURPRISE-INVOKING FACTS ABOUT AUTHORS
The impact of John Milton on America
The pamphlet “Areopagitica” by John Milton influenced the First Amendment of the United States Constitution, and Milton himself influenced America’s founding fathers.
Louisa May Alcott’s occupation
Prior to writing “Little Women,” Louisa May Alcott served as a Civil War nurse.
The source of Agatha Christie’s inspiration
Agatha Christie once stated that she enjoyed coming up with her stories while taking a bath and snacking on pears.
Washington Irving and New York
In an 1807 periodical, Washington Irving coined the term ‘Gotham City’ to characterise New York.
Inspiration for Haruki Murakami to compose fiction
After attending a baseball game at Jingu Stadium, Haruki Murakami, who had never written a novel before, was inspired to compose fiction for the first time.
WHY WE LOVE NATIONAL BIOGRAPHER’S DAY
Biographies receive honour
Biographers do not receive sufficient praise for their work; this should change. National Biographer’s Day not only commemorates an important event in the genre’s history, but also recognises the work biographers do to convey real stories to readers.
Biographies bring history to life.
A well-written biography is more than merely enjoyable to read. It can help us gain a deeper understanding of people’s lives and solidify their ideas and experiences.
It promotes the study of biographies.
Biographies are an essential literary genre. While reading fiction can help us relax and unleash our imagination, biographies can introduce us to an entirely new universe. Reading a biography can help you understand how another person lived and worked, and perhaps you can adopt some of their excellent habits. Biographies should be on every reader’s reading agenda.
NATIONAL BIOGRAPHER’S DAY DATES
| Year | Date | Day |
|---|---|---|
| 2023 | May 16 | Tuesday |
| 2024 | May 16 | Thursday |
| 2025 | May 16 | Friday |
| 2026 | May 16 | Saturday |
| 2027 | May 16 | Sunday |
