Profile
Tin Moe (1933-2007) was a poet and literary activist from Myanmar. He was known for his poignant works that span themes of nature, love, and political freedom. Born in the village of Kanmyè, he became a prominent figure in Burmese literature, publishing his first collection of poems, "Hpan Mee Ain" (The Lantern), in 1959, which earned him the National Literary Award for Poetry. His early poems were influenced by Burmese literary pioneers Min Thu Wun and Zawgyi, and he became a household name through his children's verse, some of which were turned into songs for films and included in school textbooks.Tin Moe's life took a dramatic turn following the political upheaval in Burma in 1988. An ardent supporter of the pro-democracy movement, he faced imprisonment in 1991 for his political activities. This experience did not deter him; instead, it fueled his resolve to fight for democracy and freedom through his writings. In 1999, facing the threat of another arrest, he went into exile, living in Europe and the United States, where he continued to write and participate in literary events.
