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The Poet – Philip Larkin
Philip Larkin, a renowned British poet, is celebrated for his keen observations and exploration of everyday life, often intertwining themes of love, loss, and the passage of time. Known for his distinctive voice and unpretentious style, Larkin’s work resonates with many readers who appreciate his candid reflections on the human experience.
One of his notable poems, “The School in August,” captures the essence of a specific moment in time, evoking the feelings of nostalgia and introspection. Larkin wrote this poem to convey the profound effects of memory and the fleeting nature of youth, as he reflects on the contrast between the vibrancy of school life and the stillness of August, a time that symbolizes both the end of summer and the impending return to routine. Through vivid imagery and poignant language, Larkin invites readers to contemplate their own memories and experiences, making “The School in August” a compelling exploration of the complexities of time and childhood.
The School In August
By Philip Larkin
The cloakroom pegs are empty now,
And locked the classroom door,
The hollow desks are lined with dust,
And slow across the floor
A sunbeam creeps between the chairs
Till the sun shines no more.
Who did their hair before this glass?
Who scratched ‘Elaine loves Jill’
One drowsy summer sewing-class
With scissors on the sill?
Who practised this piano
Whose notes are now so still?
Ah, notices are taken down,
And scorebooks stowed away,
And seniors grow tomorrow
From the juniors today,
And even swimming groups can fade,
Games mistresses turn grey.