Celebrated New Zealand Author Kelly Ana Morey Passes Away at 57

Acclaimed New Zealand author Kelly Ana Morey passed away at the age of 57, leaving behind a legacy of vibrant storytelling and a unique voice in literature. Morey, known for her powerful narratives and insightful commentary on the Māori experience, died at home after a brief hospitalization due to complications from Covid-19 or influenza.

Born in 1968, Morey grew up in various locations, including New Guinea and Auckland, where she developed a passion for writing and literature. Her debut novel, Bloom, published in 2004, received critical acclaim, winning the prize for best first novel at the National Book Awards. This marked the beginning of her journey as a prominent figure in New Zealand’s literary scene.

Literary Contributions and Awards

During her career, Morey published five novels and received numerous accolades, including the Janet Frame Literary Trust Award for Fiction in 2005 and the Grimshaw Sargeson Writers Residency Fellowship in 2023. Despite her talent, she often expressed frustration regarding the lack of support and recognition from the literary community. In her correspondence, she frequently noted her struggles with rejection from various writers’ residencies and funding applications, with her last tally reaching 26.

Her final novel, originally titled Soft Bones and later renamed Ordinary People Like Us, was a family saga spanning five generations. Morey dedicated a decade to this project, which she described as her statement and masterpiece. Unfortunately, the novel faced numerous rejections from publishers, a situation that weighed heavily on her in the months leading up to her death.

A Complex and Vibrant Personality

Morey was known for her intense personality and multifaceted life. Friends described her as sensitive, clever, and sometimes difficult, yet deeply caring and independent. She lived alone on a property in Kaipara, where she cultivated a love for horticulture that supplemented her income. Morey’s health challenges, including a misdiagnosed case of Crohn’s disease, shaped her experiences and influenced her writing.

In her essays and reviews, she engaged critically with the literary world, offering sharp insights into both celebrated and lesser-known works. Morey was particularly passionate about Māori literature, advocating for diverse narratives that moved beyond traditional tropes of tragedy. Her reviews often dissected shortcomings in other authors’ works, showcasing her commitment to literary excellence.

Morey’s writing style was characterized by urgency and depth, as demonstrated in her last piece, where she explored themes of love and loss. She wrote, “I sit in the lobby bar of the James Cook Hotel drinking gin and tonic with a man who I think I might be able to love.” This poignant reflection encapsulated her complex relationship with intimacy and connection.

Legacy and Future Endeavors

Despite her challenges, Morey remained dedicated to her craft until the end. Her friends and family are now working to ensure that her final novel is published posthumously, believing it holds significant value in contemporary literature.

In her final email before her health declined, she expressed her determination to share her story: “I delivered my new novel yesterday, to Penguin. Happy with it.” The literary community mourns the loss of a remarkable talent, recognizing that Morey had much more to contribute to the world of letters.

Kelly Ana Morey will be remembered not only for her literary achievements but also for her vibrant spirit and the impact she had on those who knew her. Her work continues to resonate, reminding readers of the power of storytelling and the importance of diverse voices in literature.