Philip Larkin as a movement Poet

Introduction:

Philip Larkin stands as a giant of the Movement poetry movement. Unlike his
contemporaries who sought grandeur and exotic themes, Larkin found rich meaning
in the seemingly unremarkable experiences of everyday life. This analysis will
explore how Larkin's focus on the ordinary, his clear and accessible language, his
personal voice that grapples with doubt, his technical mastery, subtle social
commentary, and lasting influence all solidify his position as a quintessential
Movement poet

Common Themes of Everyday Life:

Philip Larkin, a poet associated with the Movement, often wrote about everyday life.
In his poem "Toads," he explores the boredom of work life. Larkin compares the toad
to the monotony of routine, showing how people struggle to meet societal
expectations. By focusing on ordinary experiences, Larkin makes his poetry
relatable to many people.

Rejecting Romanticism for Realism:

Larkin's rejection of Romanticism in favor of Realism can be seen throughout his

poetry, including in "High Windows." In this poem, Larkin challenges idealized
notions of love and relationships by portraying them in a more skeptical and realistic
light. He explores themes such as disillusionment, mortality, and the passage of
time, offering a critique of societal norms and expectations.

3. Language and Clarity:

Philip Larkin, like the Movement poets, used clear and simple language in his
poems. He avoided complex expressions, making his work easy for many people to
understand. In poems such as "This Be the Verse," he chose simple words to
convey a strong message about family relationships. His clear writing style helped
readers easily understand his thoughts on life, society, and human nature.

Philip Larkin as a movement Poet 1

4. Detachment and Irony:

Philip Larkin often sounded distant and used irony in his poems. This means he kept
a bit of emotional distance and used irony, a tool where things might not be as they
seem. In his poem "Church Going," he talks about how religion is becoming less
important in society.

5. Contemplation of Time and Mortality:

Philip Larkin often thought about the passing of time and the fact that everyone will
one day die. In his poems, he talked about these ideas in a way that made you
really think. An example of this is in his poem "An Arundel Tomb," where he reflects
on how love and memories don't last forever. Larkin wants us to see that life is short,
and things change, even the things we thought would last forever.

6. Individualism and Solitude:

Philip Larkin often wrote about being alone and thinking about life by himself, which
is something the Movement poets also explored. In his poems, Larkin often talked
about his own thoughts and experiences. This feeling of being alone in his thoughts
gives a personal touch to Larkin's poetry, making it relatable for anyone who has
ever felt alone with their own reflections.

Conclusion:

In conclusion, Philip Larkin's dedication to capturing the beauty and complexity of

everyday life not only cemented his place as a central figure in the Movement but
also paved the way for future generations of poets. His ability to craft poems that are
both relatable and meticulously crafted ensures his continued relevance as a voice
that resonates with readers across generations.

Philip Larkin as a movement Poet 2