Born in Crete, Nikos Kazantzakis (1883–1957) was one of the most important Greek writers and philosophers of the twentieth century. “Since we cannot change reality,” he observed, “let us change the eyes which see reality.” His works explored the dual nature of a person and the lifelong pull between the flesh and the spirit.

“You have everything but one thing, madness. A person needs a little madness, or else he never dares cut the rope and be free,” he wrote, recognizing how risk can open a life.

His earthy novel Zorba the Greek (1946) introduced a passionate soul, later immortalized on screen by Anthony Quinn. “Ah, if you could dance all that you’ve just said,” Zorba proclaims, “then I’d understand.” Kazantzakis believed movement could reveal truths that words alone could not carry.

Controversy followed with The Last Temptation of Christ (1951), a novel in which Jesus wrestles with his humanity and divinity. The book, including a dreamlike scene where an angel leads Christ from the cross, was banned by the Church in 1954. Kazantzakis was excommunicated from the Greek Orthodox Church, and Martin Scorsese’s 1988 film adaptation sparked protests and religious outrage.

“Everything in this world has a hidden meaning,” he explained as he tried to understand the world’s many philosophies. “Men, animals, trees, stars — they are all hieroglyphics.” Through his stories, he invited readers to look again, to see the secret signs in each ordinary day.