author
Margot Vos
1891–1985
A Dutch poet with strong socialist ideals, she wrote about ordinary people, social justice, and the inner life of children. Her work moved between committed poetry for adults and lively verse for young readers.
1 Audiobook
Van vijf moderne dichters
by P. C. Boutens, Willem Kloos, Wies Moens, C. Th. (Carel Theodorus) Scharten, Margot Vos
About the author
Born Grietje Vos in Nieuw-Amsterdam, Drenthe, on November 10, 1891, she grew up in a large socialist family of teachers and later became known by the pen name Margot Vos. Reliable Dutch biographical sources describe her as a socialist poet, and note that she was the third of ten children. She married teacher Jan Hilvers in 1916, and the couple had one daughter.
Her background shaped her writing. Coming from a family deeply involved in education and socialist ideals, she developed a literary voice closely tied to social commitment. Dutch reference sources and literary databases connect her both to poetry for adults and to children's literature, including works such as Meiregen (1925) and Vlammende verten (1926).
Margot Vos died in Winterswijk on December 1, 1985. She is remembered as part of the tradition of early twentieth-century Dutch writers who brought together poetry, social engagement, and a strong sympathy for people living on the margins.