Jean Nicolas Arthur Rimbaud was a renowned French poet known for his transgressive and surreal themes which significantly influenced modern literature and arts, prefiguring surrealism. Born on 20 October 1854 in Charleville, Rimbaud exhibited literary talent from a young age, excelling in his studies. Despite his promising academic career, he abandoned formal education amidst the Franco-Prussian War to venture to Paris.

During his late adolescence and early adulthood, Rimbaud produced the majority of his literary works. His final major literary contribution, Illuminations, was completed when he was just 20 years old, after which he ceased writing literature entirely.

Rimbaud was known for his libertine lifestyle and was involved in a tumultuous romantic relationship with fellow poet Paul Verlaine. Their relationship was marked by both passion and violence and lasted nearly two years.

Following his retirement from writing, Rimbaud embarked on extensive travels across three continents as a merchant and explorer. He eventually succumbed to cancer shortly after his 37th birthday, passing away on 10 November 1891.

Arthur Rimbaud's work, including the notable A Season in Hell, is celebrated for its contribution to the symbolism movement and as a precursor to modernist literature.