'The Whitsun Weddings' by Phillip Larkin

[LauraJayne]

As part of my A2 course, we had to study 'The Whistun Weddings' by Philip Larkin.

Initially I thought that this section of work was going to be rather dull, as Larkin has a reputation for pessimism.
However, I thought it was brilliant!

Has anyone else studied this collection of poems, or are generally interested in Larkin? I'd like to hear what you think :]



xx

[Anthony Furze]

Hello,LauraJayne.

Yes. Im a big fan of Larkin! I love the delicate use of language and his take on rhyme. In spite of his pessimism, I find his observations on life very apt and terse and the verse is just wonderful.

[LauraJayne]

I agree :]

What is your favourite poem by Larkin?
I really must read some of his other poetry!

x

[Aunty-lion]

Yep. I pretty much love the guy.
I read a really fantastic take on This Be The Verse on another forum,


This Be The Verse

They f*** 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 f***ed 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.

The guy on the other forum had noted how the first line of the poem can be read both psychologically and physiologically, that is, your parents can f*** you up emotonally/mentally, but that they are also literally 'f***ing you up when they concieve you. "They may not mean to but they do" could also be in reference to unplanned pregnancy. Isn't that a cool take on it? I just love the double meaning.

I also really love Sad Steps, lots of double meanings in that one too.