Charles Baudelaire was a French poet, essayist, and art critic born on April 9, 1821, in Paris. He is best known for his influential collection of poems titled Les Fleurs du mal (The Flowers of Evil), published in 1857. Baudelaire's work explores themes of beauty, decadence, and the complexities of modern life, often reflecting his fascination with urban experiences. Baudelaire is considered a pioneer of modern poetry and a key figure in the Symbolist movement. His writings have inspired countless poets and artists, and he is often associated with the idea of the flâneur, a detached observer of city life. He passed away on August 31, 1867, leaving a lasting legacy in literature.