Madeline Defrees was born on November 18, 1919 in the beautiful state of Oregon. She grew up surrounded by the lush landscapes and vibrant culture of the Pacific Northwest, which would later influence her poetry in profound ways. From a young age, Defrees showed a talent for writing and a deep love for literature.
After completing her high school education, Defrees went on to pursue higher studies at Marylhurst College, where she honed her craft and explored the world of literature in depth. She furthered her education at the University of Oregon, where she delved into poetry and began to develop her unique voice as a writer.
In 1936, Defrees made a life-changing decision to join the Catholic Sisterhood. For several decades, she devoted herself to a life of service and spirituality, taking on the name Sister Mary Gilbert. During this time, she found solace and inspiration in her faith, which would later find its way into her poetry.
It wasn't until 1973 that Defrees decided to leave the Sisterhood and reclaim her birth name. This period of her life was a transformative one, as she sought to rediscover her identity and find her place in the world as a poet.
Defrees published her debut poetry collection, From the Darkroom, in 1964. The collection was well-received by critics and readers alike, establishing Defrees as a formidable voice in the world of poetry. Her work was praised for its lyrical beauty, introspective depth, and poignant observations about life and human nature.
Throughout the years, Defrees continued to write and publish poetry, earning recognition and accolades for her evocative and thought-provoking work. She captivated audiences with her keen insight, emotional resonance, and masterful command of language.
After leaving the Catholic Sisterhood, Defrees returned to her roots in Oregon, where she became a beloved figure in the literary community. She shared her passion for poetry with aspiring writers and students, teaching in the graduate creative writing program at Pacific University.
Defrees's poetry touched the hearts of readers around the world, earning her prestigious awards and honors, including the Washington State Book Award for poetry for her collection Spectral Waves in 2006. Her works, such as Blue Dusk and Magpie on the Gallows, continue to inspire and resonate with audiences to this day.
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