The Philip Larkin I Knew (Philip Larkin Society Monograph Series) by Brennan, Maeve (2002) Paperback

by Maeve Brennan

The Philip Larkin I Knew traces the author’s close friendship with the poet and stretches over his 30 year tenure of office as librarian of the University of Hull, taking in his literary achievements from The Less Deceived (1955), through The Whitsun Weddings (1964), to High Windows (1974). It reveals Larkin in a new light – courteous, compassionate, generous, and a man of deep sensitivity and charm – with a natural sense of fun and instinctive wit; in contrast to the gloomy and somewhat objectionable portrait that has emerged since his death.

Genres: Nonfiction

Paperback

First published September 20, 2002

About the author

Maeve Brennan (January 6, 1917-1993) was an Irish short story writer and journalist. She moved to the United States in 1934 when her father was appointed to the Irish Legation in Washington. She was an important figure in both Irish diaspora writing and in Irish writing itself. Collections of her articles, short stories, and a novella have been published.

(from Wikipedia)

Reviews

[Jeff Howells · Rating 4 out of 5]

An alternative take on Larkin from one of the women who had a long relationship with him. It acts as a counter balance to the book about Monica Jones I recently read.
Maeve Brennan worked with Larkin and was in a relationship with him (on and off) for the best part of 30 years.
It offers a kinder portrait of the poet than a lot of the studies that have been published since his death. Here is a man who shows tenderness and kindness - and even dances to the Beatles at parties.
What does this ultimately prove? That we are all complex, that we have public and private selves and often we show different versions of ourselves to the people we love as well as the people we meet. Who’s to say that the Larkin described here isn’t any less valid than the harsher description that is now the prevailing version.

[Lyn Lockwood · Rating 4 out of 5]

Gives an account of the romantic side of Philip Larkin. One for Larkin enthusiasts.

[Jackdaw · Rating 2 out of 5]

Rather drab and uninspiring. A more appropriate title might have been, the Philip Larkin I Didn’t Know! If only Monica Jones had written her memoirs...