Renowned Greek poet and songwriter Michalis Gkanas, born in 1944 in Tsamandata, Thesprotia, has passed away. Gkanas spent part of his early life in Eastern Europe before studying law at the University of Athens. His poetry gained recognition, with many works set to music by notable composers such as Mikis Theodorakis and Thanasas Gaifyllias. He was awarded the B’ State Poetry Prize in 1994 for his work ‘Paralogia’ and received accolades for his poetry collection from the Academy of Athens in 2011. His works have been translated into multiple languages, broadening his impact beyond Greece.