Product Description

This lively volume of Philip Larkin's prose writings - reviews and critical assessments of books and writers; pieces on jazz, mostly uncollected; some long and revealing interviews - is an entertaining and significant collection stamped by wit, originality and intelligence.

Product Details

• Amazon Sales Rank: #199854 in Books
• Published on: 2002-05-06
• Original language: English
• Binding: Paperback
• 315 pages

Customer Reviews

Excellent first collection of essays and writings collective
Now republished by Faber & Faber (no doubt as a result of the tremendous popularity of the late great poet, as well as Mr Thwaite's excellent companion selection "Further Requirements"), this collective was infact Larkin's own selection from the mounds of his writings. Many found here were originally introductions to works published, interviews given, and essays undertaken - all in great demand in 1982 and now! "Required Writing" contains the excellent introduction to "Jill" - Larkin's first attempt at a novel - what is excellent is the insight to life in Oxford during the second world war. Other worthy items include a superior analysis of the 'real' Wilfred Owen - war poet of the Great War (who died in action just days before the end of the 1914-18 conflict); Larkin's early years as a Librarian; and titbits on Betjeman and other contempories. "Required Writing" as with the recent Thwaite collective, also lays to rest questions of Larkin's interpersonal karmas; views of establishments; and outlines his reluctance to conform to a changing world, preferring a reclusive style of profession and social existance so apt for a writer during the period. I recommend this book without reservation.