One of Portugal's most revered poets has passed away at the age of 82. Eugenio de Andrade died today after a long battle with an unspecified illness. Andrade's real name was Jose Fontinhas. He wrote his first poems at the age of 13 and went on to write over 30 books of poetry and prose.

Eugenio de Andrade's writing talent brought him fame and critical acclaim both in his native Portugal and abroad. He won the 1986 International Association of Literary Critics award and the 1989 Portuguese Association of Writers' award. Many of his works, including the award-winning "Os Sulcos da Sede," or "The Streaks of Thirst", were translated into various languages ranging from English to Chinese.

Andrade was quite the recluse. Despite his literary fame in his native country, he was rarely spotted in public. Like many great thinkers, he seemed to thrive in solitude and anonymity.

A funeral for Andrade, who was not married and had no children, will take place Tuesday in Porto.