Famous Estonian Writers

Lennart Meri was a prominent figure in Estonian politics and culture. He served as the country's foreign minister from 1990 to 1992, playing a key role in Estonia's transition to independence from the Soviet Union. Meri then went on to become the President of Estonia from 1992 to 2001, overseeing the country's development and integration into the international community. Alongside his political career, Meri was also a respected writer and film director, further contributing to Estonia's cultural heritage.

Jaan Kross was an Estonian writer known for his significant contributions to literature. He gained international recognition for his work, earning prestigious awards such as the 1995 International Nonino Prize in Italy. Kross was highly regarded for his literary talent and unique storytelling style, which captivated readers worldwide. His professional life was marked by a commitment to producing impactful and thought-provoking literature that explored various themes and aspects of human experience. Kross's influence extended beyond his native Estonia, solidifying his legacy as a prominent figure in the literary world.

Andrus Kivirähk is a prominent Estonian writer known for his works as a playwright, topical satirist, and screenwriter. His novel "Rehepapp ehk November" became a bestseller with over 25,000 copies sold by 2004, establishing him as the most popular 21st-century Estonian writer. Another notable work, "Mees, kes teadis ussisõnu," achieved significant success and became one of the top-selling books in Estonia. Kivirähk has been an active member of the Estonian Writers' Union since 1996, showcasing his dedication to the literary community.

Friedrich Reinhold Kreutzwald was an Estonian writer known as the father of Estonian national literature. His professional life was marked by his significant contributions to Estonian culture through his writing. He is most renowned for his authorship of the Estonian national epic, Kalevipoeg, a work that solidified his status as a literary figure of great importance. Kreutzwald played a crucial role in preserving and promoting Estonian folklore and language, leaving a lasting impact on the country's literary heritage.

Carl Robert Jakobson was a prominent Estonian writer, politician, and teacher known for his contributions during the Estonian national awakening in the 19th century. Active in the Governorate of Livonia, Russian Empire, he played a crucial role in shaping Estonian national identity through his literary works and political activities. Jakobson's dedication to education and advocacy for Estonian cultural and linguistic rights made him a key figure in the movement for national self-determination, leaving a lasting impact on Estonian society and history.

Jaan Kaplinski, an Estonian poet, philosopher, politician, and culture critic, was renowned for his advocacy of left-wing/liberal ideologies and his deep engagement with global issues. Drawing inspiration from Eastern philosophical traditions, particularly Taoism and Buddhism, he made significant contributions as a translator, editor, sociologist, and ecologist at the Tallinn Botanic Garden. Kaplinski's diverse professional roles reflected his multifaceted interests and expertise, culminating in a Nobel Prize in Literature nomination that recognized his profound impact on literature and thought.

Mihkel Raud is a versatile Estonian professional with a successful career as a writer, music artist, actor, and former member of the Estonian parliament. He gained recognition for his book "Musta pori näkku" and his role as a former host of an Estonian talk show on TV3. Raud's diverse talents have allowed him to make significant contributions to the fields of literature, music, and entertainment in Estonia, establishing him as a prominent figure in the country's cultural landscape.

Marie Under was a renowned Estonian poet known for her significant contributions to literature. She gained international recognition for her literary talent and was nominated for the Nobel Prize in Literature an impressive 14 times. Through her poetry, Under captivated readers with her profound insights, vivid imagery, and emotional depth. Her works continue to inspire and resonate with audiences around the world, solidifying her legacy as a prominent figure in Estonian literature and beyond.

Leelo Tungal is a versatile Estonian writer known for her work in children's literature, poetry, editing, translation, and libretto writing. She is the founder of the acclaimed children's magazine called "Hea Laps." Throughout her successful career, Leelo Tungal has been recognized with numerous prestigious awards, including the Karl Eduard Sööt Award, Julius Oro Award, Muhv Award, and Baltic Assembly Prize in Literature. Her contributions to literature, especially in the realm of children's writing, have solidified her reputation as a highly respected and accomplished figure in the literary world.

Oskar Luts was a prominent Estonian writer and playwright known for his contributions to literature. Throughout his professional life, he wrote numerous novels, short stories, and plays that captured the essence of Estonian society and culture. Luts' works often depicted everyday life with humor and insight, gaining him widespread acclaim and recognition. His writing style was characterized by a unique blend of realism and satire, making him a significant figure in Estonian literature. Luts' legacy continues to influence modern Estonian literary traditions.

Juhan Viiding, known as Jüri Üdi, was a prominent figure in Estonian literature and theater. As a poet, he was known for his unique and innovative writing style, blending elements of surrealism and absurdism. His works often explored themes of identity, mortality, and the human condition. In addition to his literary contributions, Viiding was also a talented actor, showcasing his versatility and creativity on the stage. Throughout his career, he left a lasting impact on Estonian culture and continues to be celebrated for his artistic achievements.

Anton Hansen Tammsaare, known by his pseudonym A. H. Tammsaare, was an Estonian writer renowned for his pentalogy "Truth and Justice," a significant contribution to Estonian literature. His work is often referred to as "The Estonian Novel." Through his writing, Tammsaare became a prominent figure in the literary scene, earning recognition for his insightful portrayal of Estonian society and human nature. His pentalogy remains a cornerstone of Estonian literature, showcasing his talent for crafting complex characters and exploring moral dilemmas within a societal context.

Velly Joonas is a multi-talented Estonian artist known for her work as a musician, songwriter, painter, and poet. With nearly 300 songs and 30 poem anthologies to her name, she has established herself as a prolific creative force. Her works have been showcased in art galleries, reflecting her diverse talents. Joonas has also gained recognition for her musical covers and original compositions, with songs like "Stopp, seisku aeg" and "Käes on aeg" showcasing her musical artistry and style.

Gustav Suits was a prominent figure in Estonian literature, known for his significant contributions as a poet and leader of the literary movement group Noor-Eesti (Young Estonia). Throughout his career, he played a key role in shaping the cultural landscape of Estonia through his innovative poetry and his involvement in various literary initiatives. Suits' work is characterized by its depth, creativity, and influence on the development of Estonian literature. His legacy continues to be celebrated for its lasting impact on the country's literary heritage.

Kaur Kender is an Estonian entrepreneur and author known for his controversial nature. In 2016, he faced accusations of writing child pornography but was ultimately acquitted. He is recognized for his collaboration with fellow author Robert Kurvitz in the development of the critically acclaimed video game, "Disco Elysium." Kender's professional life is characterized by his contributions to both the literary and gaming industries, showcasing his creativity and impact on various art forms.