Sylvia Townsend Warner (1893–1978) was an English writer known for her novels, poetry, and short stories, as well as for her leftist political beliefs and unconventional personal life. Her work often displayed a blend of wit, satire, and keen observation of human behavior and relationships. Warner's first novel, "Lolly Willowes" (1926), gained critical acclaim and is recognized as an early feminist work, telling the story of a woman breaking away from societal expectations to live independently, which involves her becoming a witch. Warner is also well-regarded for her series of historical novels about the fourteenth-century poet Thomas the Rhymer. Over her career, she published several more novels, around 150 short stories, poetry, and a biography of the novelist T.H. White. Her writing is celebrated for its lyrical qualities and its ability to capture the minutiae of everyday life while addressing broader themes of love, gender roles, and societal constraints. Warner was also a significant contributor to "The New Yorker" magazine throughout her life.