Ngo Tat To

Ngo Tat To (1894-1954) is such a household name that even younger readers have heard of his name. The man's work has undeniable influence in both Vietnamese literature and culture - and, at the time of war - served as a source of fighting strength for Vietnamese farmers and the lower class.

Ngo Tat To's literature and poetry are strongly characterized by his criticisms of the current society - and how it trapped people (especially young, poor women) in a hopeless, dark future filled to the brim with bad premises. His short novel, "When The Lights Out" (Tắt Đèn) is the peak of his writing career and the strongest reflection of his messages, resonating with female readers in particular and Vietnamese citizens in general even to this day.

Sadly, Ngo Tat To's final years of his life were just as stormy and tragic as the characters in his book; numerous rumors have revolved around his death, with many claiming that the man committed suicide at home.

Regardless of his passing away, his legacy as a writer and a revolutionary lives on, inspiring generations of Vietnamese writers and farmers to fight for justice and freedom. Millions of Vietnamese all concur that Ngo Tat To is indeed among the most legendary authors in history.

Age: 1894 - 1954

Most famous works: When The Lights Out (Tắt Đèn), Village (Việc làng)