Harold Bloom was an influential American literary critic, scholar, and author, born on July 11, 1930, and passing on October 14, 2019. He was best known for his works on Western literature and his theories about the canon, which is a collection of works considered essential in a particular field. Bloom's most famous book, "The Anxiety of Influence," explores how writers are shaped by their predecessors. Throughout his career, Bloom taught at several prestigious institutions, including Yale University. He was a prominent figure in literary criticism, often advocating for the importance of reading classic texts. Bloom's ideas sparked debates about the role of literature in culture and education, making him a significant voice in the field.