Famous Haitian Writers

Edwidge Danticat is a highly acclaimed Haitian-American novelist and short story writer known for her impactful works. Her debut novel, Breath, Eyes, Memory, was selected for Oprah's Book Club, catapulting her to literary fame. Over the years, Danticat has authored and edited numerous books, garnering prestigious awards and accolades for her contributions to literature. In the fall of 2023, she is set to assume the role of the Wun Tsun Tam Mellon Professor of the Humanities at Columbia University, further solidifying her status as a prominent figure in the literary world.

Anténor Firmin was a prominent Haitian barrister and philosopher, as well as a pioneering anthropologist, journalist, and politician. He is best known for his influential work "De l'égalité des races humaines" (English: "On the Equality of Human Races"), published in 1885 as a response to Count Arthur de Gobineau's assertion of racial inequality. Firmin's book argued for the equality of all human races, emphasizing that individuals share the same qualities and faults regardless of color or anatomical form. Despite facing marginalization for his beliefs, Firmin left a lasting impact with his advocacy for racial equality.

Frankétienne is a multifaceted Haitian artist known for his contributions to literature, theater, painting, and music. He is renowned as one of Haiti's prominent writers and playwrights, excelling in both French and Haitian Creole. As a painter, he is recognized for his vibrant abstract artworks, 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. His diverse talents have solidified his status as a significant figure in Haitian culture and intellectual circles.

Josaphat-Robert Large was a prominent Euro-Haitian-American poet, novelist, and art critic known for his literary achievements. He garnered recognition for his novel "Les terres entourées de larmes" winning the Prix littéraire des Caraïbes in 2003 and being nominated for the Haitian grand Literary Prize in 2004. Large was a respected member of various literary organizations and participated in significant literary events and festivals. He wrote in both French and Haitian Creole, showcasing his versatility as a writer and contributing significantly to the literary landscape.

René Depestre is a renowned Haitian poet and former communist activist. He is highly regarded in Haitian literature for his significant contributions. Depestre lived in Cuba to escape the Duvalier regime and played a key role as a founder of the Casa de las Américas publishing house. His professional focus has primarily been on poetry, where he has achieved notable recognition for his work. Depestre's career highlights include his exile experience, activism, and establishment of a prominent publishing house, solidifying his reputation in the literary world.

Oswald Durand, known as "Haiti’s Shakespeare," was an iconic Haitian literary figure and the national poet of Haiti. He was a prominent romantic poet, journalist, and politician, having served as the president of the Chamber of Deputies. His notable work, Choucoune, continues to be celebrated. Durand's professional life was marked by his significant contributions to literature and politics in Haiti, leaving a lasting impact on the cultural landscape of the country through his poetry and public service.

Dany Laferrière is a prominent Haitian-Canadian novelist and journalist known for his works in French. He was elected to seat 2 of the Académie française in 2013 and officially inducted in 2015. Laferrière's professional life is characterized by his prolific writing career, with a focus on novels that explore themes of identity, culture, and migration. His contributions to literature have earned him international acclaim and recognition, solidifying his reputation as a leading voice in contemporary French literature.

Jacques Stephen Alexis was a prominent Haitian communist novelist, poet, and activist. He gained recognition for his literary work, particularly his novel Compère Général Soleil, published in 1955. Throughout his career, Alexis was dedicated to advocating for social justice and political change through his writing and activism. His commitment to addressing societal issues and promoting communist ideology made him a significant figure in the literary and political spheres of Haiti during his time.

Ibi Aanu Zoboi is a prominent Haitian-American author specializing in young adult fiction. Her notable work includes the young adult novel "American Street," recognized as a finalist for the National Book Award for Young Adult's Literature in 2017. Zoboi has established herself as a respected voice in the literary world, focusing on themes relevant to young readers. Through her writing, she has captivated audiences with compelling storytelling and insightful narratives, contributing significantly to the realm of young adult literature.

Assotto Saint was a prominent figure in LGBT and African-American art and literary culture during the 1980s and early 1990s. He was a talented poet, publisher, and performance artist. Saint's work was influential, addressing important themes related to identity, race, and sexuality. He played a vital role in elevating the voices of marginalized communities through his art and activism. Saint's contributions continue to resonate in the world of literature and performance art, leaving a lasting impact on the cultural landscape.

Dimitry Elias Léger is a Haitian-American novelist, journalist, and humanitarian, best known for his acclaimed novel "God Loves Haiti" (2015). His writing has been featured in numerous magazines and newspapers. Léger has also served as a communications advisor at the United Nations since 2010, working in various countries such as Haiti, Switzerland, and Mali. With a focus on addressing critical issues and advocating for social change, Léger's professional endeavors have made a significant impact on both the literary and humanitarian spheres.

Évelyne Trouillot is a renowned Haitian author who writes in both French and Creole. Throughout her career, she has made significant contributions to literature, focusing on themes such as identity, culture, and social issues. Trouillot's works often explore the complexities of Haitian society and history, shedding light on the experiences of its people. With a unique storytelling style that combines poetic language with poignant narratives, she has captivated readers worldwide and established herself as a leading voice in contemporary Haitian literature.

Jacques Roumain was a Haitian writer, politician, and advocate of Marxism. He is widely recognized as a leading figure in Haitian literature. His notable work, Gouverneurs de la Rosée (Masters of the Dew), was translated by the African-American poet Langston Hughes. The novel was also adapted into a film. Roumain's professional life was marked by his significant contributions to literature, his political involvement, and his promotion of Marxist ideals, making him a key figure in the cultural and political landscape of Haiti.

Georges Sylvain was a prominent Haitian poet, lawyer, and diplomat known for his contributions to literature and education. He founded a law school and established two influential periodicals. As a member of the literary society La Ronde, he actively participated in various literary activities. Sylvain published a collection of poems titled Confidences et Mélancolies, showcasing his poetic talent. His professional endeavors reflected his dedication to promoting legal education and fostering intellectual discourse in Haiti.

Marie Vieux-Chauvet was a renowned Haitian novelist, poet, and playwright known for her impactful literary works. Educated in Port-au-Prince, she gained recognition for her novels such as Fille d'Haïti, La Danse sur le volcan, Fonds des nègres, and Amour, colère et folie. Her professional life was marked by a commitment to addressing social and political issues through her writing, offering powerful insights into Haitian society and culture. Vieux-Chauvet's works continue to inspire and provoke thoughtful discussions on important themes.

Pompee Valentin Vastey was a prominent Haitian politician, educator, and writer known for his significant contributions to the history of Haiti. He gained recognition for his insightful essays on Haiti's past and served as a secretary under King Henri Christophe. Vastey also played a crucial role as a tutor to Jacques-Victor Henry, the son of Henri Christophe. His multifaceted professional life involved a strong commitment to education, historical research, and supporting the royal family, showcasing his dedication to both intellectual pursuits and public service.

Massillon Coicou was a multifaceted figure, excelling in various professional roles. As a Haitian novelist, poet, and playwright, he showcased his literary talents primarily in France while serving as the Haitian Chargé d'Affaires Étrangères. In addition to his creative pursuits, Coicou was also involved in politics, openly criticizing the government of Pierre Nord Alexis. This led to his tragic demise in 1908 when he was executed on Alexis' orders, highlighting the tumultuous intersection of his literary and political endeavors.

Lyonel Trouillot is a versatile professional, excelling as a novelist, poet, journalist, and professor. His literary works are renowned for their exploration of complex themes in both French and Haitian Creole. As a journalist, Trouillot brings a unique perspective to his writing, while his role as a professor allows him to share his expertise in French and Creole literature with students in Port-au-Prince. Through his multifaceted career, Trouillot has made significant contributions to the literary and academic communities.

Jules Solime Milscent was a multifaceted individual, known for his contributions as a Haitian poet, fabulist, and politician. As a poet, he crafted timeless fables such as "L'Homme et le Serpent," "Le Cœur et l'Esprit," and "Le Chien et le Loup." In the realm of journalism, he co-founded the esteemed publication "L'Abeille Haytienne." Milscent's impact extended to politics, where he held various significant government positions. Through his diverse professional endeavors, he left a lasting legacy as a creative literary figure and a dedicated public servant.

Yanick Lahens is a highly regarded Haitian Francophone writer, novelist, teacher, and lecturer. She achieved significant recognition when she won the prestigious Prix Femina award in 2014. Through her writing, Lahens has captured the hearts of readers with her insightful storytelling and deep exploration of Haitian culture and society. As a teacher and lecturer, she shares her knowledge and passion for literature with others, inspiring the next generation of writers and thinkers. Lahens' professional life is marked by her commitment to promoting Haitian literature and culture on a global stage.

Michèle Montas is a Haitian journalist with a distinguished career in communication and media. She served as the Spokesperson under UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon and headed the French unit of UN Radio. Montas started her journalism career in Haiti alongside her husband, Jean Dominique, a prominent journalist. Following challenges and attacks in Haiti, she had to flee the country and briefly lived in exile. Despite facing adversity, Montas continued her work in journalism and communication, making significant contributions to the field.

Solon Ménos was a Haitian writer, politician, and diplomat known for his significant contributions to Haiti's political landscape. He studied in France and obtained a law doctorate at a young age. Throughout his career, Ménos held key positions such as Haiti's minister to Washington, D.C., and Minister of Finance. He was a respected poet and author, with one of his notable works being L'Affaire Lüders, which focused on the Haiti-Germany conflict during Tirésias Simon Sam's presidency.

Gary Klang, a Haitian-Canadian poet and author, fled the dictatorship of Duvalier and pursued studies at Sorbonne University in Paris. After relocating to Canada, he initially taught before transitioning to work as a translator. Eventually, Klang found his calling as a writer. His notable works include "Toute terre est prison." Through his professional journey, Klang has navigated diverse roles in academia, language, and creative expression, leaving a significant impact on the literary landscape with his compelling writing and experiences.