Stephen Crane was an American poet, novelist, and short story writer. Prolific throughout his short life, he wrote notable works in the Realist tradition as well as early examples of American Naturalism and Impressionism. He is recognized by modern critics as one of the most innovative writers of his generation. November 1, 1871 – 1900; died at about 28. Alive at the same time as Adolf Hitler, Albert Einstein, Karl Marx, Vincent van Gogh, and Leo Tolstoy. Wiki link