John B. Keane was an Irish playwright, novelist, and poet, born on July 4, 1928, in County Kerry, Ireland. He is best known for his works that capture the essence of rural Irish life, often highlighting the struggles and humor of everyday people. His most famous plays include The Field and Sive, which have been performed widely and adapted into various formats. Keane's writing style is characterized by rich dialogue and a deep understanding of human nature. Throughout his career, he published numerous books and received several awards for his contributions to literature. He passed away on May 30, 2002, leaving a lasting legacy in Irish theater and literature.