Owen, Goronwy (1723-1769), was a Welsh poet and clergyman. Owen is best remembered for his verses in the strict meter of the Welsh cywydd, a type of ode. He reintroduced this medieval Welsh verse form into modern Welsh literature. His poems show Owen’s mastery of the Welsh language and his purity of style. Best known are his early works Calendr Y Carwr (The Lover’s Calendar) and Cywydd Y Farn Fawr (Ode on the Last Judgement).
Owen was born on Jan. 1, 1723, in Rhos Fawr, Anglesey, Gwynedd. He attended Oxford University from 1742 to 1745. He was ordained a deacon in 1745 and a priest in 1747. Owen served as curate and schoolmaster in various cities in England for about 10 years. From 1758 to 1760, Owen taught in Williamsburg, Virginia, in the American Colonies. From 1760 until his death in July 1769, he was minister of St. Andrew’s Church in Brunswick County, Virginia.
