Philip Larkin: An Analysis

Abstract

Any poet of this stature is worthy of having his work investigated. The procedure in this thesis has been to examine Larkin's total literary output -- a study neglected thus far -- and in so doing, place the poet in a tentative literary context, discuss his poetic style and technique, and trace his major or recurrent themes. The procedure of the paper thus coincides with the purpose -- an analysis rather than a critical judgment of an already -- acknowledged artist. However, following the brief discussion of his early works, and a more detailed analysis of his later poetry (upon which his reputation is based), the conclusion contains, in addition to an integrative summary, a modest evaluation.