On June 8^th 2015 the Philip Larkin Society presented a Philip Larkin Study Day for the Yorkshire and Humber regions of the University of The Third Age (U3A) at the Lawns Centre in Cottingham. About 60 U3A members attended and heard talks from James Booth, Philip Pullen and Belinda Hakes.

 

 

 

Hazel Ward, of Swanland U3A introduces the speakers

 

 

James began the day with a presentation entitled ‘Philip Larkin: Living for Others’, which drew on the themes of his recent biography of Larkin and focused on the very different versions of the man provided by the women with whom he was romantically involved, his friends and university colleagues.

In a talk entitled ‘Dearest Old Creature’ Philip explored the life of Larkin’s mother, Eva, based largely on his research into the extensive correspondence she had with her son and on what the letters tell us about the importance of Larkin’s relationship with his mother.

 

‘When I see a couple of kids…’ examined the ways in which Larkin’s poetry has featured in the sixth form curricula over the past three decades. Belinda outlined some of the challenges this has presented to teachers and the ways in which the ‘teaching and learning’ of Larkin has impacted on young minds.

The day was a great success and led to some lively and thoughtful discussion – and, without doubt, an enhanced interest in Larkin for many of those who attended.

 

 

 

 

 

On 17^th June the Dean of Westminster, the Very Reverend Dr John Hall announced that Philip Larkin is to be honoured by a memorial stone in Poets’ Corner. Fittingly, the announcement was made from Larkin’s old office in the Brynmor Jones Library at The University of Hull.

Dr Hall said: “With the kings and queens in Westminster Abbey are buried or memorialised 3,300 men and women, many of whom have contributed with distinction to the health and well-being not only of the people of England and the United Kingdom and Commonwealth but of the whole English-speaking world. Philip Larkin will be memorialised very near Geoffrey Chaucer, finding a fitting place among his fellow poets. I have no doubt that his work and memory will live on as long as the English language continues to be understood.”

This accolade has long been campaigned for by members of the Society and friends of Philip Larkin and recognises his position as the most admired and popular poet of the 20^th century.

The memorial will be unveiled on 2^nd December 2016, the 31^st anniversary of Larkin’s death. As well as enabling Larkin to take his rightful place at the very cultural heart of the nation in Westminster Abbey, it will also form a wonderful prelude to Hull’s year as UK City of Culture in 2017.

The Philip Larkin Society is delighted to reveal its new website. Designed by Graham Scott (Human Design), who was responsible for the highly successful Larkin 25 website, this site aims to provide an improved platform for gaining access to information and resources relating to Philip Larkin.

The launching of the site marks an important first step in expanding access to ‘all things Larkin’, particularly electronically, at a time when world wide interest in him continues to grow.