Poems of Philip Larkin

June 13, 2012 • Tags: poetry, hkbc, reading, british

Author: Philip Larkin

The Poems of Philip Larkin show him to be one known for his introspective and often pessimistic view of the world. Here is a summary of some of his notable poems:

“Be the Verse”

Larkin’s most famous and controversial poem. It reflects on the negative impact of family and inheritance on individuals. The poem emphasizes the perpetuation of unhappiness and disappointment across generations.

They fuck you up, your mum and dad.   
    They may not mean to, but they do.   
They fill you with the faults they had
    And add some extra, just for you.

But they were fucked up in their turn
    By fools in old-style hats and coats,   
Who half the time were soppy-stern
    And half at one another’s throats.

Man hands on misery to man.
    It deepens like a coastal shelf.
Get out as early as you can,
    And don’t have any kids yourself.

“Church Going”

In this poem, Larkin explores the decline of religious faith. And with it, the loss of significance of churches in modern society. He contemplates the purpose and meaning of these spaces and reflects on the transient nature of human existence.

“An Arundel Tomb”

Larkin observes a medieval tomb in Chichester Cathedral. He reflects on the enduring power of love and the transient nature of human life. The poem raises questions about the significance of love and memory in the face of mortality.

“MCMXIV”

This poem focuses on the outbreak of World War I. It examines the contrast between the innocence of pre-war Britain and the devastating impact of the conflict. Larkin reflects on the loss of a bygone era and the disillusionment that followed.

“High Windows”

Larkin’s exploration of sexuality and the changing societal attitudes towards it. The poem reflects on the loss of innocence and the fleeting nature of pleasure. It also critiques the restrictive moral norms of the time.

“The Whitsun Weddings”

Larkin’s contemplation of life, love, and marriage. The poem describes a train journey and the weddings taking place on the same day. Larkin reflects on the choices people make in pursuit of happiness and the limitations of human connections.

These are just some examples of the poems of Philip Larkin. But they capture some of the themes in his work. The passage of time, the disillusionment of modern life, the transient nature of happiness, and the contemplation of mortality. Larkin’s poetry often evokes a sense of existential unease and explores the complexities of human emotions and relationships. There’s more than a bit of Debbie Downerexternal link about him, but his poems are absolutely brilliant.

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