Norman Mailer was an American novelist, journalist, and essayist, born on January 31, 1923, in Long Branch, New Jersey. He is best known for his works such as The Naked and the Dead, which explores the experiences of soldiers during World War II. Mailer was a prominent figure in the literary scene and was known for his provocative style and exploration of complex themes. Throughout his career, Mailer received numerous awards, including the Pulitzer Prize for his novel Armies of the Night. He was also a co-founder of the Village Voice, a significant publication in the counterculture movement. Mailer's influence extended beyond literature, as he often engaged in political and social issues, making him a controversial yet important figure in American culture.