Nicholas Blake was the pen name of the British poet and novelist Cecil Day-Lewis, who was born on April 27, 1904, and died on July 22, 1972. He was known for his contributions to both poetry and detective fiction, blending literary skill with engaging storytelling. Blake's work often explored themes of morality and human experience. In addition to his writing, Nicholas Blake served as the Poet Laureate of the United Kingdom from 1968 until his death. His detective novels, featuring the character Nigel Strangeways, gained popularity for their clever plots and intricate puzzles, establishing him as a notable figure in the crime fiction genre.