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Born on January 4, 1940, Gao Xingjian is a renowned Chinese-born French playwright, novelist, critic, and painter. His works, often characterized by their experimental nature, explore themes of alienation, identity, and the intricacies of human existence. Xingjian's literary contributions have garnered international acclaim, including the prestigious Nobel Prize in Literature in 2000, making him the first Chinese-born writer to receive this honor.