Marilyn Bowering

Marilyn Bowering (born April 13, 1949) is a Canadian poet, novelist and playwright. As well as several adventure novels and many books of poetry, Bowering has also scripted a number of dramatic works and a libretto.

Early life

Bowering was born in Winnipeg, Manitoba, and grew up in Victoria, British Columbia. She studied English at the University of Victoria, and graduated with a Master of Arts degree.

Career

In 1987, Bowering wrote a book of poetic monologues, titled Anyone Can See I Love You, which was later adapted as a radio drama. In 1998 she wrote an adventure story, Visible Worlds, which received positive reviews.

In 2012, her book of poetry, Soul Mouth, was published.

In 2013 Bowering worked with composer Gavin Bryars to create the libretto for a chamber opera, Marilyn Forever, about Marilyn Monroe.

Personal

Bowering lives in Sooke, British Columbia; she is married and has one daughter.

Awards

• National Magazine Award for Poetry, Gold 1978
• Nominated for the 1984 Governor General's Award (The Sunday Before Winter)
• National Magazine Award for Poetry, Silver 1989
• Long Poem Prize, The Malahat Review, 1994
• Pat Lowther Award for poetry, 1997 (Autobiography)
• Nominated for the 1997 Governor General's Award (Autobiography)
• Nominated for the 1997 Dorothy Livesay Poetry Prize (Autobiography)
• Ethel Wilson Fiction Prize, 1998 (Visible Worlds)
• Short-listed for the Orange Prize, 1999 (Visible Worlds)
• Short-listed for the Dorothy Livesay Poetry Prize, 2004 (The Alchemy of Happiness)
• Short-listed for the Ethel Wilson Fiction Prize 2007 (What It Takes to Be Human)