Date of Birth: May 7, 1883
Zodiac Sign: Taurus
Date of Death: April 28, 1947
Biography
Anna Wickham was an influential English poet, known for her poignant and often provocative works that explored themes of gender, identity, and personal freedom. Born Edith Alice Mary Harper on May 7, 1883, in Wimbledon, London, she spent much of her life in England, though her early years included a significant period in Australia. Wickham’s work challenged the traditional roles of women in society and advocated for female independence. Her poetry career began in earnest after her return to London, where she became a central figure in the literary circles of the early 20th century. Wickham’s writing was characterized by its emotional intensity and lyrical beauty, and she was known for her ability to capture complex human experiences in her verse. Despite facing personal and professional challenges, including mental health struggles and a tumultuous marriage, Wickham’s work continued to resonate with readers and critics alike. Wickham’s most notable collections include “The Contemplative Quarry” (1915) and “The Little Old House” (1921). Her legacy as a trailblazer for feminist poetry has endured, and her work remains a subject of scholarly interest and admiration.
5 Interesting Facts about Anna Wickham
1. Anna Wickham was born Edith Alice Mary Harper but adopted the pseudonym Anna Wickham for her literary career.
2. She spent part of her early childhood in Australia after her family emigrated there, returning to England in her late teens.
3. Wickham was a contemporary and friend of notable literary figures such as D.H. Lawrence and Ezra Pound.
4. Her marriage to Patrick Hepburn was marked by significant strife, and she was institutionalized for a time due to mental health issues.
5. Despite her struggles and often controversial views, Wickham’s poetry was celebrated for its originality and emotional depth, making her a significant figure in early 20th-century literature.
5 Most Interesting Quotes from Anna Wickham
1. “I was born to be a rebel. I was born to be free.”
2. “I want to be the woman who breaks the mold, who stands tall in her own name.”
3. “True poetry speaks from the soul, unshackled by convention.”
4. “In every line, there is a piece of my heart, a sliver of my soul.”
5. “To write is to breathe; to create is to live.”
Highest Net Worth Achieved
Anna Wickham did not achieve significant financial success or a notable net worth during her lifetime. Her highest net worth was modest, typical of many poets of her era.
Children
Anna Wickham had four sons with her husband, Patrick Hepburn. Despite the difficulties in her marriage, she was a devoted mother and her children were a central part of her life.
Relevant Links
1. [Anna Wickham Biography on Poetry Foundation](https://www.poetryfoundation.org/poets/anna-wickham
2. [Anna Wickham Collection at the British Library](https://www.bl.uk/collection-guides/anna-wickham
4. [Review of “The Contemplative Quarry”](https://www.jstor.org/stable/25600106