Amichai is best known for his poetry, 80 compilations of which have been published in 35 languages. He also published two novels, a collection of short stories, children's books, plays and radio plays. Amichai received many literary prizes, among them the prestigious 1982 Israel Prize.

Yehuda Amichai was born in 1924 in Wurzburg, Germany, and was raised in a religious family that immigrated to Eretz Israel in 1935. Amichai completed his secondary studies in a religious high school and served with the British Army's Jewish Brigade during World War II. He served with the elite Palmach unit in the 1948 War of Independence.

Amichai studied Literature and Biblical Studies at the Hebrew University. He trained as a teacher and taught at numerous academic institutions in Israel and abroad.

On Amichai's 70th birthday, the Institute for the Translation of Hebrew Literature published a comprehensive bibliography listing all the poet's works in translation.

A memorial book for all those wishing to write their thoughts and condolences will be available at the Institute for the Translation of Hebrew Literature stand at the forthcoming Frankfurt Fair (Hall 8.0 N-938/3).