Lorna Sage was a Welsh literary scholar and memoirist best known for her critically acclaimed autobiography, "Bad Blood," which vividly recounts her unconventional upbringing in post-war Britain. Born in Hanmer, Flintshire, she pursued an academic career despite becoming a mother at sixteen, eventually earning a scholarship to Durham University after its admission policies changed to accommodate married students. Sage specialized in English literature, with a particular focus on seventeenth-century poetry, and later became a Professor of English Literature at the University of East Anglia.
Her scholarly work extended beyond traditional academia, notably through her editorship of "The Cambridge Guide to Women's Writing in English," a seminal reference text that highlighted the evolving role of women in literary history. Sage's writing often explored themes of gender, transformation, and the intersection of personal and cultural change. Her memoir, "Bad Blood," stands as a testament to her sharp observational skills and wit, offering a poignant reflection on family, ambition, and societal constraints. Sage's contributions to literature and feminist scholarship remain influential in both academic and public spheres.