Charlotte Mew

About

Late 19th and early 20th-century English poet whose work spans the genres of Modernism and Victorian-era poetry. Her best-known poems include "On the Asylum Road," "In Nunhead Cemetery," and "The Farmer's Bride."

Before Fame

She studied at Lucy Harrison's School for Girls and also sat in on lectures at University College, London.

Trivia

She wore men's clothing throughout her adult life and vowed never to marry (ostensibly for fear of passing on the mental illness that plagued her family). Some biographers surmise that she was a celibate lesbian.

Family Life

Her father was the architect Fredrick Mew. In addition to a sister, Anne, she had several other siblings, many of whom died in childhood or were committed to mental institutions.

Associated With

She was supported by the literary patronage of Virginia Woolf.