Gloria Rawlinson

Gloria Jasmine Rawlinson (1 October 1918 – 25 July 1995) was a New Zealand poet, novelist, short-story writer and editor. She was born in Ha'apai, Tonga, in 1918, the daughter of Ethel Rose (Rosalie) Jennings and Alexander John Rawlinson.[1]

Biography

After arriving in New Zealand in 1924, Rawlinson was affected by the poliomyelitis epidemic with infantile paralysis.[2] After being hospitalised for four years, she remained paralysed and using a wheelchair for her life. Despite her incapacitation, Rawlinson was responsible for the care of her mother and uncle, until they passed in 1988 and 1993 respectively.[2]

Twenty Years After Programme

Her work in literature is what brought her to fame, at the age of 15 she was well-known for her second volume of poetry titled "Perfume vendor". This work sold 7,000 copies and was translated into Dutch and Japanese.[2] Most her work was written from her home on Market Road in Epsom, Auckland.[2]

1938 Concert Programme

Gloria Rawlinson co-conducted The Happiness Club Armistice Day, "Twenty Years After", in November 1938.[2]

The proceeds went to the Plunket Society.

References

1. Ensing, Riemke. "Gloria Jasmine Rawlinson". Dictionary of New Zealand Biography. Ministry for Culture and Heritage. Retrieved 23 April 2017.
2. Bush, Graham (2006). The History of Epsom. Auckland: Epsom & Eden District Historical Society Inc. pp. 273–274.

External links

• Works by Gloria Rawlinson at Open Library