Edogawa Rampo was the pen name of Tarō Hirai, a Japanese author born on October 21, 1894, and known for his contributions to the mystery and detective fiction genres. He is often regarded as the father of Japanese mystery literature, blending Western influences with traditional Japanese storytelling. His works frequently feature intricate plots, psychological depth, and a focus on the darker aspects of human nature. Rampo's stories often include recurring characters, such as the detective Kogoro Akechi, and explore themes of crime, obsession, and the macabre. His writing style is characterized by vivid imagery and a flair for the bizarre, making his stories both engaging and thought-provoking. Rampo passed away on July 1, 1965, leaving a lasting legacy in Japanese literature.