Michel Houellebecq is a French author, poet, and essayist known for his provocative and often controversial works. Born on February 26, 1956, he gained international fame with novels like Submission and The Elementary Particles, which explore themes of alienation, sexuality, and the impact of modern society on human relationships. His writing style is characterized by a blend of dark humor and bleak realism, often reflecting his critical views on contemporary culture. Houellebecq has received several literary awards, including the Prix Goncourt, and is considered one of the most significant voices in modern French literature.