Olwyn Hughes, a literary agent "with a fearsome reputation who was devoted to the work of her brother, Ted Hughes, and the posthumous literary life of his wife Sylvia Plath," died January 3, the Guardian reported. She was 87. Noting that she "was aghast at the poor terms being offered to her brother," the Guardian wrote that "Ted in turn was surprised to learn that contracts could actually be negotiated. Hitherto, simply grateful to be published, he had just signed whatever contract he was sent. So began Olwyn's career as his agent." Her clients also included novelist Jean Rhys.
