Alain-Fournier was the pen name of the French author Henri Alban Fournier, born on October 3, 1886. He is best known for his novel Le Grand Meaulnes, published in 1913, which is considered a classic of French literature. The story explores themes of nostalgia, lost innocence, and the quest for an idealized past. Tragically, Alain-Fournier died in combat during World War I on September 22, 1914, at the young age of 27. Despite his brief life, his literary contributions have left a lasting impact, and Le Grand Meaulnes continues to be studied and celebrated for its poetic style and emotional depth.