Famous Haitian Poets

Frankétienne is a multi-talented Haitian artist known for his contributions to literature, theater, painting, and music. As a writer and playwright, he is celebrated for his works in both French and Haitian Creole, earning him the title of "father of Haitian letters." His paintings are characterized by vibrant abstract compositions, often featuring the colors blue and red. Frankétienne's achievements include being a Nobel Prize in Literature nominee, a Commander of the Ordre des Arts et Lettres, and a UNESCO Artist for Peace.

Josaphat-Robert Large was a distinguished poet, novelist, and art critic of Euro-Haitian-American descent. His novel "Les terres entourées de larmes" earned him the esteemed Prix littéraire des Caraïbes in 2003 and a nomination for the Haitian grand Literary Prize in 2004. He was a finalist at the Ushant Literary Contest in 2002 and wrote in both French and Haitian Creole. Large was a member of various literary societies and associations, including the PEN Club America, and his works were celebrated in international literary events and colloquiums.

Jacques Roumain was a Haitian writer, politician, and advocate of Marxism known for his significant contributions to Haitian literature. He gained prominence as a key figure in the literary scene, with his works being highly regarded. His novel "Gouverneurs de la Rosée" (Masters of the Dew) was translated by poet Langston Hughes and later adapted into a film. Roumain's professional life was marked by his dedication to writing, political activism, and his influential role in advocating for social change through his literary works.

René Depestre is a Haitian poet and former communist activist known for his significant contributions to Haitian literature. He spent many years in Cuba as an exile from the Duvalier regime and played a key role in founding the Casa de las Américas publishing house. Depestre is highly regarded for his poetry, which has earned him a reputation as one of the most prominent figures in Haitian literature. His professional life has been marked by a commitment to artistic expression and social activism.

Oswald Durand, known as "Haiti's Shakespeare," was an iconic figure in Haitian literature, revered as the national poet. Initially a journalist and politician, he later became the president of the Chamber of Deputies. Durand's literary legacy primarily consists of romantic poetry, with his work "Choucoune" being widely celebrated. Throughout his professional life, Durand made significant contributions to Haitian literature, politics, and journalism, leaving a lasting impact on the cultural landscape of Haiti as a prominent and influential figure.

Jacques Stephen Alexis was a prominent Haitian communist novelist, poet, and activist. He gained recognition for his impactful work, particularly his novel Compère Général Soleil, published in 1955. Through his writing, Alexis delved into social and political issues, shedding light on the struggles of his time. His commitment to advocating for change and social justice resonated with many, establishing him as a significant figure in Haitian literature and activism. Alexis left a lasting legacy through his literary contributions, inspiring others to engage critically with societal issues.

Georges Sylvain was a multifaceted individual known for his contributions as a poet, lawyer, and diplomat. After completing his education in Paris, he returned to Haiti where he established a law school and launched two influential periodicals. Sylvain actively participated in literary circles and was associated with various cultural endeavors. His notable work includes the publication of "Confidences et Mélancolies," a collection of twenty-nine poems. Sylvain's professional life was marked by his commitment to legal education, literary pursuits, and diplomatic engagements.

Assotto Saint was a prominent figure in LGBT and African-American art and literary culture during the 1980s and early 1990s. He was known for his work as a poet, publisher, and performance artist. Saint played a crucial role in bringing attention to the intersection of race and sexuality through his artistic endeavors. He was a key advocate for diverse voices within the creative community, using his platform to highlight the experiences of marginalized individuals. His contributions continue to inspire and influence contemporary artists.

Massillon Coicou was a multi-talented individual, serving as a Haitian novelist, poet, playwright, and politician. His literary works gained recognition in France, particularly during his time as the Haitian Chargé d'Affaires Étrangères. Coicou was known for his sharp criticism of Pierre Nord Alexis and his government. He bravely announced his intentions to overthrow Alexis, a move that ultimately led to his execution by Alexis' orders in 1908. Coicou's professional life was marked by his contributions to literature and his involvement in Haitian politics.

Jules Solime Milscent was a multifaceted professional, excelling as a Haitian poet, fabulist, and politician. Known for his fables such as "L'Homme et le Serpent," "Le Cœur et l'Esprit," and "Le Chien et le Loup," he also co-founded the journal "L'Abeille Haytienne." In addition to his literary contributions, Milscent held various government positions, showcasing his dedication to public service. His career was marked by a successful blend of creativity in the arts and impactful leadership in the political sphere.

Lyonel Trouillot is a prominent figure in Haitian literature, distinguished as a novelist, poet, journalist, and professor. He is highly respected for his work in both French and Haitian Creole languages, showcasing his mastery of storytelling and linguistic versatility. As a professor of French and Creole literature in Port-au-Prince, Trouillot plays a crucial role in shaping the literary landscape and nurturing future talents. His multifaceted career reflects a deep commitment to cultural preservation, education, and artistic expression within Haiti and beyond.

Évelyne Trouillot is a renowned Haitian author who writes in both French and Creole languages. She is known for her captivating literary works that often explore themes of identity, politics, and social issues in Haiti. Trouillot's writing style is characterized by its poetic language and profound insights into the complexities of human experience. With a career spanning several decades, she has established herself as a prominent voice in Haitian literature, garnering critical acclaim and a devoted readership both locally and internationally.

Solon Ménos was a Haitian writer and politician known for his significant contributions to both fields. He studied in France, where he earned a doctorate in law at a young age. Ménos later served as Haiti's minister to Washington, D.C., and held the position of Minister of Finance. He was a talented poet and author, with one of his notable works being L'Affaire Lüders, which explored the conflict between Haiti and Germany during a specific presidency. Ménos' professional life was marked by his political achievements and literary endeavors.

Marie Vieux-Chauvet was a prominent Haitian novelist, poet, and playwright known for her significant contributions to literature. Born and educated in Port-au-Prince, she gained recognition for her powerful and thought-provoking works, including notable novels such as Fille d'Haïti, La Danse sur le volcan, Fonds des nègres, and Amour, colère et folie. Throughout her career, she wrote under the name Marie Chauvet, showcasing her talent for storytelling and her deep understanding of Haitian society and culture.

Gary Klang, a Haitian-Canadian poet and author, embarked on a diverse professional journey. After fleeing from the Duvalier regime in Haiti, he pursued studies at Sorbonne University in Paris. Subsequently, he transitioned to Canada, where he initially taught before venturing into translation work. Eventually, Klang found his calling as a writer, producing notable works such as "Toute terre est prison." His career evolution highlights his resilience, intellectual pursuits, and creative contributions to the literary world.