Robert Walser was a Swiss writer born on April 15, 1878, in Biel, Switzerland. He is known for his unique style, which often blends prose and poetry. His works frequently explore themes of individuality, nature, and the human experience, reflecting his deep observations of everyday life. Walser's most notable works include The Walk and Jakob von Gunten. Despite his significant influence on later writers, such as Franz Kafka and Hermann Hesse, he remained relatively unknown during his lifetime. He spent the later years of his life in a mental institution, where he continued to write until his death on December 25, 1956.