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Jaan KaplinskiEstonian poet, essayist, translator
Date of Birth: 22.01.1941
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Content:
Jan Kaus
Jan Kaus is an acclaimed Estonian poet, essayist, and translator.Early Life and Education
Born in Tartu, Estonia, in 1936, Kaus grew up in a bilingual household, with an Estonian mother and a Polish father. His father was arrested and perished in prison during the Soviet annexation of Estonia in 1940. Kaus studied romance philology at the University of Tartu, graduating in 1966.
Literary Influences
During his formative years, Kaus was heavily influenced by the Tartu-Moscow School of Semiotics and postmodern literary theory. However, he also developed a deep appreciation for Eastern philosophy, particularly Buddhism, under the guidance of theologian and philosopher Uku Masing.
Translation and Poetry
Kaus is renowned for his translations, including Lao Zi's "Tao Te Ching" from Chinese and works by prominent poets from English, French, Spanish, and Swedish. His own poems and essays have been translated into numerous languages worldwide.
Political Involvement
In the years following Estonia's independence in 1990, Kaus became actively involved in politics. He served as a deputy in the Estonian Parliament from 1992 to 1995 and has been a member of the Estonian Social Democratic Party since 2004.
Recognition and Legacy
Kaus' literary contributions have earned him international recognition. He has received awards such as the Vilenica Prize in 2001 and has inspired the musical composition of his poems by British composer Harrison Birtwistle. Kaus' work continues to inspire and provoke audiences, making him a significant figure in contemporary European literature.