Philip Larkin was known as ‘England’s other poet laureate’. He was the popular and critical choice for the position when it became available in 1984. However, a publicity-shy Larkin refused the honour.
Larkin was born on August 9th, 1922. ‘Jill’, was his first novel. The novel is based on his experiences at Oxford during his student days. He self published ‘The North Ship’, his first book of poetry. ‘The Less Deceived’, a collection of poetry, brought him fame. ‘The Whitsun Weddings’ and ‘High Windows’ are his other important works of verse.
He was also a famous essayist. ‘Required Writing’ is his well known book of essays. Philip Larkin was awarded the Queen’s Gold Medal for Poetry. Larkin died on 2nd December 1985.
A memorial for Philip Larkin at Westminster Abbey reminds visitors of his contributions to post war poetry.