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Creator
Larkin, Philip
Call number
Berg Coll MSS 186092
Physical description
0.21 linear feet (1 box). letters and cards, 60 items
Language
English
Preferred Citation
Philip Larkin letters to Norman Iles, Henry W. and Albert A. Berg Collection of English and American Literature, The New York Public Library
Repository
Henry W. and Albert A. Berg Collection of English and American Literature
Access to materials
Request an in-person research appointment.

Philip Larkin (1922-1985) was an English poet, writer, and librarian. While attending the University of Oxford, Larkin befriended fellow student Norman Iles. The majority of the letters are from Larkin to Iles and date from 1941 to 1982. The collection additionally includes two letters to Iles from another member of "The Seven," Philip Brown.

Biographical/historical information

Philip Larkin (1922-1985) was an English poet, writer, and librarian. While attending the University of Oxford, Larkin befriended fellow student and author Norman Iles.

Larkin and Iles were part of a group of friends who met at the University of Oxford called "The Seven," who shared a love of writing poetry. Their mutual friend, Philip Brown was also one of "The Seven." Larkin's letters discuss these friendships, his romantic life, and the poetry and literature he studied. Larkin also discusses his feelings about World War II, where Iles was enlisted. Larkin failed the military medical exam due to his poor eyesight and remained at Oxford.

Larkin was appointed the chief librarian at the Wellington Public Library in 1946, and Iles was living in London. Later that year, Larkin became the associate librarian at University College, Leicester. His first novel, Jill, was also published that year. Larkin became associated with a group of British poets called The Movement, whose work embraced traditional English poetry in reaction to more modernist styles.

The University of Hull appointed Larkin as librarian in 1955, and he worked there until he died. In addition to his duties at the library, Larkin wrote much of his poetry and prose in his office.

Larkin was diagnosed with esophageal cancer and died in 1985.

Scope and arrangement

The Philip Larkin letters to Norman Iles span from 1941 until 1982 and reflect most of Larkin's adult life. The letters are all written by Larkin, addressed to Iles. The collection is arranged chronologically and contains sixty letters and cards. The envelopes have been stamped with the date as well as Larkin and Iles' addresses. While Iles served in the army, Larkin wrote several letters, and the address also reflects Iles' rank at the time of writing. In an August 1946 letter, Larkin refers to Jill as his "Oxford novel" and states it is being published soon.

In the letters, Larkin shares poetry and provides feedback and criticism. The letters follow significant events in Larkin's life, including his marriage to Ruth Bowman in 1948. In the final two letters, written in 1981 and 1982, Larkin encouraged Iles to write his autobiography, which was published privately in 2007.

Most of the letters are handwritten, but there are some typewritten letters and cards present. One autographed letter, dated February 6, 1973, includes a typewritten copy of the poem "The Old Fools." In addition to Larkin's letters, there are also two 1944 letters addressed to Iles from their mutal friend Philip Brown.

Some letters use offensive language.

Administrative information

Custodial history

Purchased from the estate of Norman Iles; English Literature, History, Science, Children's Books and Illustrations sale (Sotheby's, London, 9 July 2018, lot 523); purchased, 2022.

Source of acquisition

Purchased in 2022.

Processing information

Processed by Emily P. Dunne in 2024.

Using the collection

Location

Henry W. and Albert A. Berg Collection of English and American Literature
Stephen A. Schwarzman Building
Fifth Avenue at 42nd Street, New York, NY 10018-2788
Third Floor, Room 320