Ellen Gilchrist
Ellen Gilchrist
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Full Name and Common Aliases
Ellen Mary Gilchrist is an American poet, novelist, and short story writer. She is often referred to by her pen name, which has become synonymous with her unique writing style.
Birth and Death Dates
Born on December 13, 1935, in Vicksburg, Mississippi, Ellen Gilchrist passed away on January 20, 2022, at the age of 86.
Nationality and Profession(s)
Ellen Gilchrist holds American nationality. Throughout her illustrious career, she has worked as a poet, novelist, and short story writer, leaving an indelible mark on the literary world.
Early Life and Background
Growing up in Vicksburg, Mississippi, Ellen was surrounded by the rich cultural heritage of the South. Her childhood experiences would later influence her writing style, which is characterized by its vivid descriptions of people, places, and events. Gilchrist's family moved to Arkansas when she was a teenager, where she developed a passion for literature and began writing poetry at an early age.
Major Accomplishments
Ellen Gilchrist's remarkable career spans over four decades. Some of her notable accomplishments include:
Being awarded the National Endowment for the Arts Fellowship in 1977
Receiving the Guggenheim Fellowship in Creative Arts in 1983
Winning the American Book Award for Poetry in 1986Notable Works or Actions
Ellen Gilchrist has published numerous collections of poetry, novels, and short stories. Some of her notable works include:
The Girls on Warden Avenue (1978) - a novel that explores themes of family, love, and identity
Starcarbon (1995) - a collection of poems that examine the complexities of human relationships
Kissing the Bread (2000) - a memoir that reflects on her life experiences as a writer
Impact and Legacy
Ellen Gilchrist's writing has had a profound impact on readers worldwide. Her ability to craft vivid, memorable characters has captivated audiences, making her one of the most beloved writers of her generation. Her legacy extends beyond her published works; she has inspired countless writers to explore their own creativity and experiment with different styles.
Why They Are Widely Quoted or Remembered
Ellen Gilchrist's quotes are often sought after for their insight into human nature, love, and relationships. Her words offer a unique perspective on life, making them relatable and inspiring to readers of all ages. As a celebrated writer, she continues to be remembered for her remarkable contributions to literature, leaving behind a lasting impact that will endure for generations to come.
Ellen Gilchrist's life was a testament to the power of creativity and perseverance. Her writing continues to inspire and captivate audiences worldwide, solidifying her place as one of the most beloved writers of our time.
Quotes by Ellen Gilchrist

The human race. You have to love it and wish it well and not preach or think you have any reason to think you are better than anyone else. Amen. Good-bye. Peace.

Everything in the world had happened to them and kept on happening. They didn’t care. They liked it that way.

One of the reasons I am happy now is that I did the work I had always dreamed of doing. But I didn’t start doing it seriously and professionally until I was forty years old.

Tell me the truth about death. I don’t know what it is. We have them, then they are gone but they stay in our minds. Their stories are part of us as long as we live and as long as we tell them or write them down.

I don’t believe you ever stop loving anyone you ever really loved. You have them there like money in the bank just because you loved them and held them in your arms or dreamed you did. You can forget a lot of things in life, but not that honey to end all honeys.

Everything in the world had happened to them and kept on happening. They didn't care. They liked it that way.

One of the reasons I am happy now is that I did the work I had always dreamed of doing. But I didn't start doing it seriously and professionally until I was forty years old.

One thing I know is that it is a bad idea to marry someone who had bad parents. If they hated their mother, if they were hated by their mother or father, your marriage will pay for it in ways both obvious and subtle. When the chips are down, when someone is sick or loses their job or gets scared, the old patterns will kick in and he will treat you the way he treated his mother or the way she treated him.

