Harwood, Gwen (1920–1995)

Australian poet and librettist. The first volume in her own name – Poems – appeared in 1963, though her works had been published previously under various pseudonyms. Harwood's verse is characterized by a high degree of literary polish, a sardonic wit, and sensuousness.

Her libretti are ‘The Fall of the House of Usher’ 1965 and ‘Lenz’ (1973), both to music by Larry Sitsky, and ‘Commentaries on Living’ (1972), to music by James Penberthy.

Harwood was born in Taringa, Queensland, and studied music in Brisbane. Characters in her work include the libidinous intellectual Professor Eisenbart and the drunken musician Professor Krote.