Stéphane Mallarmé was a French poet born in 1842, known for his innovative and complex use of language. He played a significant role in the Symbolist movement, which emphasized the use of symbols and imagery to convey emotions and ideas rather than direct statements. His works often explore themes of existence, art, and the nature of reality. Mallarmé's most famous poem, "L'Après-midi d'un faune," reflects his unique style and has influenced many writers and artists. He believed that poetry should evoke feelings and thoughts through suggestion rather than explicit meaning, paving the way for modernist literature.