In Memoriam: Fanny Howe (1940–2025)
In Memoriam: Fanny Howe (1940–2025)
“If someone is alone reading my poems, I hope it would be like reading someone’s notebook. A record. Of a place, beauty, difficulty. A familiar daily struggle. Fanny Howe
Fanny Howe, the acclaimed American poet, novelist, essayist, and educator, passed away on July 9, 2025, at the age of 85. A long-time resident of Cambridge, Massachusetts, Howe leaves behind a profound literary legacy marked by spiritual inquiry, ethical reflection, and a deep engagement with the complexities of human suffering and resilience.
Throughout her distinguished career, Howe authored more than 20 books of poetry and prose. Her work is widely recognized for its lyrical intensity and philosophical depth, often exploring themes of faith, doubt, justice, and the search for meaning in a fractured world. She received many accolades, including the Griffin Poetry Prize and fellowships from the Guggenheim Foundation and the National Endowment for the Arts.
Howe also served as a professor and mentor to generations of writers. Her influence extended far beyond the United States, resonating with readers and scholars around the world.
For Turkish readers interested in experiencing Howe’s poetic voice, selections from her collection Scattered Light have been beautifully translated into Turkish by Efe Murad under the title Saçılı Işık.