Stephen Crane (November 1, 1871 – June 5, 1900) was an American poet, novelist, and short story writer. Pioneering the literary method of naturalism, Crane depicted the harsh realities of life in his work with vivid intensity. Crane's novel 'Maggie: A Girl of the Streets' (1893) is a seminal example of American naturalism. An unflinching portrayal of the brutal environment of the New York City slums, the novel follows the tragic descent of a young woman, Maggie Johnson, after she is betrayed by her family and society at large. Rejecting the prevalent romanticizing of poverty, Crane's work stands as an uncompromising exploration of the human condition, spotlighting the impact of socioeconomic circumstances on individuals. Despite his brief career, cut short by his untimely death at the age of 28, Crane's influence looms large in American literature. His stark writing style and choice to confront taboo social subjects set him apart from his contemporaries and paved the way for future generations of writers. His most famous work, 'The Red Badge of Courage' (1895), further cemented his reputation as a formidable figure in American letters. Crane's literary technique relied on close observation, irony, and a tone of detachment to reveal his characters' psychological landscapes, making him a forerunner for literary modernism.