3 Must-Read Gwen Harwood Poems

Gwen Harwood was an Australian poet who died in 1995. She is regarded as one of Australia’s best writers, publishing more than 420 works during her lifetime. This includes more than 350 poems. Today, Australia’s prestigious Gwen Hardwood Poetry Prize is named for her.

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Barn Owl

‘Barn Owl’ by Gwen Harwood is a powerful poem about losing one’s innocence. While using symbolism, the poet depicts a child sneaking off to shoot a barn owl.

Gwen Harwood was a significant Australian poet known for her rich exploration of life, nature, and the human experience. Her poem 'Barn Owl' is among her most famous works, often studied and appreciated for its emotional depth. This poem captures a critical moment in childhood, where the speaker grapples with life and death after harming an owl. Harwood’s ability to convey complex feelings makes this piece impactful and relatable.

Daybreak: the household slept.

I rose, blessed by the sun.

A horny fiend, I crept

out with my father's gun.

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In The Park

‘In The Park’ by Gwen Harwood is a moving poem about how difficult motherhood can truly be. It describes a mother’s distress over her lost life.

She sits in the park. Her clothes are out of date.

Two children whine and bicker, tug her skirt.

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Suburban Sonnet

‘Suburban Sonnet’ by Gwen Harwood is a powerful poem about a woman’s struggles with motherhood. It explores the mundane elements of her life and her lost dreams.

She practises a fugue, though it can matter

to no one now if she plays well or not.

Beside her on the floor two children chatter,

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3 Must-Read Gwen Harwood Poems

Barn Owl

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