Jean de La Fontaine was a French poet famous for his Fables, which have delighted readers for centuries. He was born in July 1621 in Château-Thierry, France and died on April 1695 at age 73. Synonyms for Jean de La Fontaine include the French word fabuliste or fabulist, signifying one who writes fables, as well as poet, writer, and storyteller. His Fables continue to be popular with children and adults alike, and his work has been translated into numerous languages. Beyond his literary talents, La Fontaine was also an eminent courtier in the court of Louis XIV, where he wrote and performed plays under the patronage of the king.