Marge Piercy is an American progressive activist, feminist, and writer. Her work includes "Woman on the Edge of Time" and "He, She and It", which won the 1993 Arthur C. Clarke Award. She is also known for "Gone to Soldiers", a New York Times Best Seller and a sweeping historical novel set during World War II.
Born on March 31, 1936, in Detroit, Michigan, Piercy's work is rooted in her Jewish heritage, Marxist social and political activism, and feminist ideals. She was the first in her family to attend college, studying at the University of Michigan where she won a Hopwood Award for Poetry and Fiction in 1957. This enabled her to finish college and spend some time in France, concluding her formal education with an M.A. from Northwestern University.
Piercy's early years were marked by challenges, including a bout with rheumatic fever that turned her towards a love of books. Over time, she transitioned into a prolific career as a poet and novelist. Her writing is characterized by strong political themes and recognizable portrayals of working-class women.
Throughout her life, Piercy has been actively involved in various social movements, including civil rights and the women's movement. She has been married multiple times and has lived in several places, including Cape Cod, where she finds inspiration in the landscape and the community.
Piercy continues to be a significant voice in literature, bringing her experiences and convictions into her work, and she remains active in promoting social and political change through her writing.