Adrienne Cecile Rich (May 16, 1929 – March 27, 2012) was an American poet, essayist and feminist. She received credit for bringing attention to the oppression of women and lesbians. She wrote many fiction and non-fiction books and many poetry. Her most controversial work was "Of Woman Born: Motherhood and Institution" in 1976. In 1986 Rich's 1980 essay "Compulsory Heterosexuality and Lesbian Existence" against heterosexuality forced by society was published. In 1974 she won National Book Award.