T. S. Eliot, whose full name is Thomas Stearns Eliot, was born on September 26, 1888, in St. Louis, Missouri. He was the son of a successful businessman and a schoolteacher, growing up in a well-educated and cultured family. Eliot's early exposure to literature and music, coupled with his family's intellectual environment, laid the foundation for his future as one of the most significant poets and playwrights of the 20th century. He passed away on January 4, 1965, in London, England, where he had spent much of his adult life.

Eliot's literary career began in earnest after he graduated from Harvard University and later studied at the Sorbonne in Paris. His early works, influenced by his philosophical and literary explorations, reflected the disillusionment of the post-World War I era. Notable works such as "The Love Song of J. Alfred Prufrock" (1915) and "The Waste Land" (1922) established him as a leading voice in modernist poetry. "The Waste Land," in particular, is regarded as one of the most important poems of the 20th century, characterized by its fragmented structure and rich allusions to various literary and cultural texts.

Throughout his literary career, Eliot was not only a poet but also a playwright and essayist. His plays, including "Murder in the Cathedral" (1935) and "The Cocktail Party" (1950), showcased his versatility and innovative approach to drama. He was awarded the Nobel Prize in Literature in 1948, recognizing his profound impact on modern literature.

Eliot's personal life was marked by complexity. He spent a significant portion of his life in England, becoming a British citizen in 1927. His first marriage to Vivienne Haigh-Wood was tumultuous and ultimately ended in separation. Later in life, he found companionship with his second wife, Valerie Fletcher. Eliot’s experiences and relationships deeply influenced his writing, often reflecting themes of alienation, spirituality, and the search for meaning in a fragmented world. His legacy endures, as his work continues to resonate with readers and writers alike.