Eluned Phillips (1914 – 2009), born in Cenarth, Ceredigion, was a poet, and the only woman to win the bardic crown at the National Eisteddfod of Wales twice, in 1967 and 1983.

Her studies at the University of London were interupted by the Second World War and thereafter she earned a living as a freelance writer for English magazines. She wrote under a pseudonym for magazines in London, penned several Mills and Boon novels and wrote scripts for BBC Wales.

Her thirst for adventure took her around the world where she spent time in the company of the likes of Edith Piaf and Pablo Picasso.

Her biography of Dewi Emrys appeared in 1971 and a collection of her peoms, Cerddi Glyn-y-mêl in 1985, and her autobiography, The Reluctant Redhead was published by Gomer in 2007.

Menna Elfyn's of Eluned Phillips, Optimist Absoliwt was published by Gomer in 2016.

Her unpublished novel Cyfrinachau (‘Secrets’) was first published by Honno in 2021, and selected to our 2021 Bookcase. The novel is based on her relationship with Pêr, a young Breton whom she met while living in Paris.

IMAGE CREDIT: ©ANN EVANS