The purpose of this series is to promote the study of writing in the English language through the introduction of the major figures writing in English throughout the ages. They provide an analytical and historical framework for understanding their subjects. This study explores Philips Larkin's major collections of poetry as well as his main prose writings, making a balanced judgement of his achievements. It shows Larkin's consistent quality as a poet, as well as his limitations of culrural conservatism and his equivocal commitment to love.