Nam Cao was the pen name of the Vietnamese writer Trí Phú, born in 1915 and known for his significant contributions to Vietnamese literature. He is celebrated for his short stories and novels that often explore themes of poverty, social injustice, and the struggles of the common people in Vietnam during the early 20th century. His most famous works include Chí Phèo and Lão Hạc, which depict the harsh realities of rural life and the impact of societal changes on individuals. Nam Cao's writing style is characterized by its realism and emotional depth, making him a prominent figure in the Vietnamese literary canon.