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Berhanu Zerihun (1933/34–1987) was one of Ethiopia’s most influential writers, journalists, and literary reformers, a man whose words reshaped how Amharic literature was written and understood. Born in Gondar, the son of an Orthodox priest, Berhanu grew up surrounded by faith, education, and storytelling — influences that would later define his writing.

He began his career in journalism, serving as editor of Addis Zemen and Voice of Ethiopia, where he brought sharp insight and accessibility to public discourse. But his true gift lay in his writing: powerful novels, short stories, and plays that examined injustice, politics, and the struggles of ordinary Ethiopians.

His major works — including “Hulet Yeemba Debdabewoch” (Two Letters of Tears), “YeTewodros Enba” (Tewodros’s Tears), and the epic trilogy “Maebel” (The Flood) — addressed the heart of Ethiopian society: love, poverty, corruption, and hope for progress.

Berhanu pioneered a writing style known as “Berhanigna” — clear, elegant, and accessible Amharic that bridged the gap between academia and everyday readers. Through this innovation, he gave a new generation the tools to read, think, and question in their own language.

He remains a literary icon buried at Holy Trinity Cathedral in Addis Ababa, among Ethiopia’s greats.
His legacy reminds us that the pen is indeed a tool for truth, justice, and national awakening.