by Niamh Brown

Created on: May 25, 2007

My Rating 4.5/5 A delicate, intimate portrait of the "Hermit from Hull"

Rarely does a biographer and his subject blend so well as to become almost synonymous. Motion's style and attention to detail not only compliments Larkin's own words and sketches his mindset eloquently, but on occasion I've found myself caught by a line and realised it was not even Larkin's.

The Book

592 pages in length (in paperback) with each page packed with words in small font there is a lot of material to wade through, but don't be put off! It was a constant joy to read and I finished it easily within a month around another book.

Even if you have no background in Larkin and his work this won't disadvantage you, in fact it may even be a benefit as you can start with a clean slate. What I knew about Larkin before reading this book was minimal, I certainly couldn't quote him, but now I can: "What remains of us is love" and that's exactly what I feel about this book.

The Author

Motion's ability to read between the lines, build up an inner picture of Larkin (from no doubt endless research) and edit it effectively, allows him to paint not only what was written but also what was felt. Even if you are not party to Larkin's views on politics, jazz or whatever you cannot help but connect deeply to him through Motions account.

By drawing from the full range of Larkin's work you see he was a writer first and foremost, even if poetry was his preferred mode of expression; hence the title of this book. From letters (both from and to Larkin), remaining diary entries, columns, novels and poetry Motion lays out the full spectrum of Larkin's skill, each form complimenting the other.

Webs of Inspiration

Larkin was a man fully dedicated to his art, aware of the need for suffering to reveal his inner nature so that he may draw inspiration. This led him to weave intricate webs of despair so he had something to write about, whilst seeking idyllic writing conditions so he could actual record it. This internal conflict remained with him up until he parted from this world with the words "I'm going to the inevitable", resolving his life long fear of death only at the final moment.

In Conclusion

The book follows Larkin's entire life span and not only illuminates his writing career but it tells you in equal candour about the man himself and what inspired him to write. I would have described in more detail what the book covers except I suspect there is no beating Motion's portrayal, so therefore I shall not try. This is a must read for all Larkin fans and writers alike.

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