I studied this collection of poetry for the first year of my A level and despite initial reluctance, I found myself enjoying the colourful language and distinctive imagery.
The poems describe a variety of experiences, ranging from the graduation into old age to the impossibility of love.
Many critics accuse Larkin's work of unrelentless pessimism and I would be inclined to suggest that this is apparent amongst this collection aswell as his previous collection, The Less Decieved.
However, this is almost part of Larkin's charm and often helps to emphasise the emotional aspects of either his life or one of his characters.
Personally, I would recommend this book to others who enjoy reading for reflections of life, or if you are intrigued to learn more about the poet, Larkin.
There are many sites which allow you to access his poetry for a taster and I highly recommend: Arundel Tomb, Afternoons, The Whitsun Weddings, Love songs In Age and Mr Bleaney.
Thanks
Lucy ( )

I'm not really a big fan of poems but had to study this... better than Dannie Abse which I also had to study. ( )