Kazumi Mishima was a prominent Japanese author, playwright, and nationalist, born on January 14, 1925. He is best known for his novels, such as The Temple of the Golden Pavilion and Confessions of a Mask, which explore themes of beauty, identity, and existentialism. Mishima's literary work earned him a reputation as one of Japan's most significant post-war writers. In addition to his writing, Mishima was also a controversial figure due to his political beliefs and dramatic lifestyle. He founded the Shield Society, a private militia aimed at promoting traditional Japanese values. His life ended in tragedy when he committed ritual suicide in 1970, following a failed coup attempt to restore the emperor's power.