Paul Valéry was a French poet, essayist, and philosopher born on October 30, 1871, in Sète, France. He is best known for his works that explore the nature of art, creativity, and the human mind. Valéry's poetry often reflects his fascination with the complexities of thought and perception. Valéry gained prominence in the early 20th century and was associated with the Symbolist movement. His notable works include "Le Cimetière marin" and "La Jeune Parque." In addition to poetry, he wrote extensively on philosophy and aesthetics, influencing many writers and thinkers, including André Gide and Marcel Proust.