Anthony Simon Thwaite was born in Chester in 1930 and spent the years of the Second World War with an aunt in Washington DC where he went to school. On his return he was boarded at Kingswood School, Bath, before studying at Christ Church Oxford. While there he edited Isis and co-edited Trio and Oxford Poetry 1954. From 1955 to 1957 he was Visiting Lecturer in English Literature at Tokyo University. On his return to England he became a producer of features for the BBC Third Programme and then, from 1962 to 1965 was literary editor of the Listener. From 1965 to 1967 he was Assistant Professor of English at the University of Libya, Benghazi. Later he became editor of The New Statesman, co-editor of Encounter and Director of Andre Deutsch Ltd. He had a sabbatical year as writer in residence at the University of East Anglia in 1972.
Thwaite and Larkin met in 1951 when Thwaite invited Larkin to contribute to a series for the European Service called Younger British Poets of Today. They quickly became good friends, their friendship deepening over the years. Larkin often stayed with the Thwaites in Richmond and later in Norfolk. As well as supporting Larkin's writing, Thwaite built a reputation as a poet himself. Thwaite published his first book of poems with the Fantasy Press in 1953 and his second Home Truths with the Marvell Press two years after Philip Larkin's The Less Deceived in 1957. His own Collected Poems was published in 2007. He is literary executor of the estate of Philip Larkin, for whom he produced Larkin at Sixty (1982), later editing The Collected Poems (1988) and Selected Letters (1992).
The collection comprises letters between Philip Larkin and Anthony Thwaite, including a letter from Larkin to Noel Hughes and one from George Astley to Anthony Thwaite, as well as postcards and miscellaneous items. The letters are written mainly from Hull, but also from London, Oxford, Isle of North Uist, King's Lynn, Isle of Mull, Leicester, Cumbria and Scotland.
The original deposit in May 1994 comprised mainly letters from Philip Larkin to Anthony Thwaite, with just a few letters from Anthony Thwaite included (dating from 1959 to 1961). The remaining letters from Anthony Thwaite (dating from 1966 to 1985), numbering around 80 items, were purchased in 2013 and are not yet catalogued.
U DP/181/1 Correspondence, 1958-1985
U DP/181/2 Postcards, 1958-1982
U DP/181/3 Lettercards, 1962
U DP/181/4 Greetings cards, 1971-1984
U DP/181/5 Miscellaneous, 1963-1973
Photocopies of the correspondence are issued to researchers rather than the originals.
Letters from Anthony Thwaite 1966-1985 are currently uncatalogued. In some cases a draft or box list may exist which may allow us to provide access to the collection ahead of the material being catalogued. If you are interested in this collection please contact archives@hull.ac.uk clearly outlining your interest and timescales.
Purchased from Anthony Thwaite, 19 May 1994 and April 2013, with the aid of the V&A Purchase Grant Fund
Letters to Philip Larkin were returned to their senders under the terms of his will, therefore letters from Anthony Thwaite to Philip Larkin were deposited by Anthony Thwaite rather than the Larkin Estate.
Other papers of Anthony Thwaite are at U DP151/4, U DP155, U DP188, U DP214 and U DAT
Papers of Philip Larkin [U DPL]
U DP/181/1/1-141 Letters from Philip Larkin to Anthony Thwaite, 1958 - 1985
U DP/181/1/142-149 Letters from Anthony Thwaite to Philip Larkin, 1959 - 1961
U DP/181/1/150 Letter from Philip Larkin to Noel Hughes, 1981
U DP/181/1/151 Letter from George Astley to Anthony Thwaite, 1963
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Wants to meet Thwaite to discuss a suggestion he made to Larkin. (1p)
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Refers to something he is writing for Thwaite of 350 words (unnamed) and puts forward the poem 'Skin' [CP92] as one of two poems Thwaite has asked for (?for BBC Third programme). (1p)
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Sends Thwaite 3 minute's worth of reasons for writing poetry (?for BBC Third programme. Not enclosed but could possibly be 5/5). (1p)
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Directs Thwaite to pay expenses, reading fee and payment for two minute introduction to Larkin, and a fee for the use of 'Church Going' [CP97] to go to George Hartley (?for BBC Third programme). (1p)
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Refers to sending Thwaite a poem (?'The Whitsun Weddings', CP114. Not present) for a BBC 'New Poetry' programme; mentions Christopher Logue and Frank Moraes. (1p)
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Sent Thwaite a copy of 'Faith Healing' [CP126] to give to K. W. Gransden for 'The Listener' if he wants it. Briefly discusses 'New Poems' with reference to Carver. (1p)
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Discusses a poem Larkin sent to Thwaite ('Faith Healing' [CP126] for use in 'New Poetry' for the BBC 'Third Programme') with particular reference to the word "blort" and the last line, mentioning D. H. Lawrence. Refers to K. W. Gransden (see also 1/146 and 1/147). (1p). Letter is printed in SL313.
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Glad 'Faith Healing' [CP126] is suitable for use in 'New Poetry' for the BBC 'Third Programme'. Refers to an American called Cranfill (Thomas Mabry) and the 'Texas Quarterly'; wishes George Hartley (G. H.) would sell Larkin's record in England ('The Less Deceived'); and PEN (International PEN. Official name PEN: never spelled out in use, is said to stand for poets, playwrights, editors, essayists, novelists). (2pp)
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Sending the poem 'Ambulances' [CP132] in reply to a request for an unpublished poem for 'New Poetry' on the BBC 'Third Programme'; refers to Brian Higgins; and W. D. Snodgrass. (1p). Letter is printed in SL323.
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Is looking for the name of a producer for a friend (unnamed) who wants to give a talk about university expansion (see 1/149). (1p)
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Refers to the Arundel Tomb in Chichester Cathedral (inspiration for Larkin's poem 'An Arundel Tomb' [CP110]); and sends Thwaite the poem 'Here' [CP136]. Poem not present. (1p)
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Discusses or refers to Thwaite being made Literary Editor of 'The Listener'; photographs of himself and Thwaite; Al Alvarez's introduction to 'The New Poetry'; Thom Gunn and Ted Hughes; and a paragraph about Thwaite in the 'Daily Telegraph' that morning with reference to 'Home Truths' (Thwaite) and George (Hartley). (1p)
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Brief note accompanying a review by Larkin of H. O. Brunner's 'The Story of the Original Dixieland Jazz Band' (abbreviated to ODJB) which appeared in 'The Listener' on 31 May 1962. (1p)
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Refers to a review by Larkin of H. O. Brunner's 'The Story of the Original Dixieland Jazz Band' which appeared in 'The Listener' on 31 May 1962; Larkin declining the offer to review Robert Graves' poetry with reference to Dylan Thomas; and 'SHENANDOAH', Graves (and 'The White Goddess'), W. B. Yeats (and 'A Vision'), and Colin Wilson. (1p). Letter is printed in SL341.
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Brief note to arrange to have lunch on 17 April 1962 (see also 1/16). Refers to an enclosed proof (not present). (1p)
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Trying to arrange lunch for 17 April 1962 (see also 1/15), not wanting to go to L'Epicure, where Thwaite suggested, with reference to Eric White and the Arts Council (of Great Britain). (1p)
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Refers to writing a review on ?William Barnes (?'The poems of William Barnes', edited by Bernard Jones); not wanting to take on too much, and putting Dom Moraes' name forward for reviewing; thinking he will not write any more poetry; and 'The Hedge' (poem by Thwaite). (2pp plus envelope)
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Will not make the deadline for the (?William) Barnes piece (? on 'The poems of William Barnes', edited by Bernard Jones) and wonders could he send it by the end of the month. (1p)
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Suggests the U. S. Library of Congress 'Sixty American Poets 1896 - 1944', selected and with a preface by Alan Tate (referring also to Frances Cheney) for reference; and also Geoffrey Moore's 'Penguin Book of Modern American Verse'. (1p)
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Does not want to review 'The Owl' ('The Owl in the Tree: Poems', Thwaite) making reference to Al [Alvarez] and George Barker; refers to Ted Hughes. (2pp)
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Does not want to review book on Owen ('Journey from Obscurity, Wilfred Owen, 1893 - 1918: memoirs of the Owen family', Harold Owen) which Thwaite has sent him. (1p)
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Sending Thwaite the Ts of 'The Whitsun Weddings' and asking for Thwaite's opinion, though Larkin has already decided to delete the poem 'Love' [CP150]. (1p)
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Discusses a review by Larkin; permission from Faber and Faber to print poems, saying he would prefer not to have 'Talking' ('Talking in Bed' [CP129]) printed in a periodical; and him being very anti - Graves (Robert) with reference also to Oxford (St. John's) and W. B. Yeats. (2pp plus envelope)
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Discusses 'The Whitsun Weddings' with reference to the book jacket, John Betjeman reviewing it, and the HS (the Hartley's). (2pp plus envelope)
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Mainly discusses a review by Thwaite in the TLS and a review by John Betjeman (?both of 'The Whitsun Weddings'). Refers also to a Rossetti (?Christina) review by Larkin; 'Jill'; and the date of Larkin's first poem. (2pp)
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Sends Thwaite the C. G. R. (?review on Christina Rossetti). Refers to John Betjeman's review (?of 'The Whitsun Weddings). (1p)
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Thanks Thwaite for sending a copy of 'Dinosaurs in the Morning: 41 pieces on jazz', (Whitney Balliett) which he has already agreed to review for 'The Spectator'. Refers to the BBC making a programme for 'Monitor' (where Larkin talks to John Betjeman. Shown December 1964). (1p)
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Is unable to send Thwaite any poems; and will not be going to the 'Critical Quarterly' dinner in London as he will be in Oxford the same night. (1p)
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Thanks Thwaite for his message (on Larkin getting the Queen's Gold Medal), referring to F. Cornford, C. Fry and W. B. Yeats. (2pp plus envelope)
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Writing to Thwaite in Libya, refers to Robert Lowell succeeding WHA (?W. H. Auden) in the Oxford chair; Argo issuing a six - disc set which includes a reading of Thwaite's poem 'Mr. Cooper'; the death, at the age of 35, of Brian Higgins; and The Beatles. (3pp, airmail)
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Writing to Thwaite in Libya, discusses or refers to Dennis Enright; the national image; Faber and Faber bringing out a complete edition of 'The North Ship' in response to Caton (R. A. Caton of the Fortune Press) issuing an unauthorised edition; Larkin feeling unable to write anything new; Anthony Burgess; Kingsley Amis; and C. B. Cox. (3pp, airmail). Letter is printed in SL384.
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Is looking forward to having lunch with Thwaite at Chez Victor on 1 November 1967. Refers to C. Day - Lewis taking up a university lectureship in poetry at Hull, mentioning also Day - Lewis' chairmanship of the Arts Council Literature Panel. (1p)
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Mainly discusses Thwaite's new job as Literary Editor of the 'New Statesman', making reference to T. W. H. Crosland and Hannen Swaffer. Refers also to Karl Miller; and to a reading on 14 December 1967 of Philip Larkin and Laurie Lee. (1p plus envelope). Includes the invitation to the above mentioned reading.
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Sending congratulations to Thwaite for the Hillary Award with reference also to the Arts Council ?Triennial Award and the Queen's Gold Medal for Poetry, Cecil Day - Lewis, and the OM (Order of Merit). Wonders if Thwaite would like a poem about looking at the moon ('Sad Steps' [CP169]). (2pp plus envelope)
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Sending a signed declaration to support Roy Fuller (not stated what in) but also stating that he is not that impressed with Fuller, who he sees as the best of a bad bunch of candidates, referring to Fuller's 'Collected Poems' and 'Buff', entry in 'Who's Who', and Freud and Marx. Refers to an essay (not present). (1p)
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Sending Thwaite a page of Ts notes (enclosed). Refers to Communism, the London School of Economics and War on Want. (2pp)
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Refers to TVF(?); and the problem Larkin is having writing an article on Tennyson (Lord Alfred). (2pp plus envelope)
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Briefly discusses Thwaite applying for the Compton Lectureship (at Hull) mentioning the Arts Council and Roy MacGregor - Hastie. Refers also to Larkin not writing any poems at the moment, and Thwaite writing some, making reference to D. H. Lawrence. (1p plus envelope)
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Is wondering where Thwaite's application for the Compton Lectureship is (see also 1/38), referring to (George) Barker, (Martin) Bell and (David) Holbrook. Refers to going on holiday to Ireland for three weeks; and declines to review Marsden ('The poems of Thomas Hardy: a critical introduction', by Kenneth Marsden). (2pp plus envelope)
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Letter asking Thwaite his literary opinion of the poem 'Letter to a Friend About Girls' [CP122] which Larkin then goes on to discuss, saying if Thwaite does think it publishable, it will have to be sent to 'Encounter'. (1p plus envelope). Letter is printed in SL428.
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Discusses the poem 'Letter to a Friend About Girls' [CP122]. Also refers to getting a pay rise not making him any happier; the possibility of a Thwaite visit to the University in October 1970; and the possibility of Thwaite attending the Summer Senate Dinner with Larkin in Hull, if they have one. (2pp)
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Sending Thwaite something ('All What Jazz'). Discusses or refers to the weather, referring to the working class; Douglas Dunn reviewing for 'Encounter'; and John H. S. (?) and J. (?John) Wain. (2pp)
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Is back in Hull from his stint as visiting fellow at All Souls College, Oxford where he worked on 'The Oxford Book of Twentieth Century English Verse', referring to the omission of Hugh McDiarmid from the book; sends a copy of 'This Be The Verse' [CP180, not present], making reference to Ann Thwaite's editing of 'Allsorts'; and refers to 'Wave'; and Thwaite going to America, mentioning also Larkin's introduction to an American edition of John Betjeman's 'Collected Poems' (1971). (2pp plus envelope). Letter is printed in SL437.
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Mainly a discussion of Larkin's choices for 'The Oxford Book of Twentieth Century English Verse', making reference to Dan Davin, John Davidson, George Barker, Roy Fuller, Dannie Abse, Seamus Heaney, (?Lascelles) Abercrombie and [Gordon] Bottomley. Sends Thwaite the poem 'Vers de Soci,t,' [CP181, not present]. (2pp)
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Thanks Thwaite for a proof (of poem 'Vers de Soci,t,' [CP181]), outlining a copyright matter. Refers to Kingsley Amis in 'The Observer'. (2pp plus envelope)
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Discusses inclusions for 'The Oxford Book of Twentieth Century English Verse', making reference to (Arthur) Waley poems and 'Chard Whitlow' (poem by Henry Reed), and Thwaite's poem 'Sunday Afternoons'. (1p)
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Sends Thwaite the poem 'The Building' [CP191, not present] with reference to 'The Prelude' (William Wordsworth). (1p)
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Discusses Thwaite arriving at the University of East Anglia (as Henfield Writing fellow), making reference to William Blake and 'The International Times'; Larkin visiting the University some time in June to give a reading; and briefly, Douglas Dunn's 'The Happier Life' and Joan Barton's 'The Mistress', published by 'The Sonus Press' run by Ted Tarling. Refers to Kingsley (Amis). (2pp plus envelope). Letter is printed in SL456.
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Refers to visiting Thwaite at the University of East Anglia; some recordings where Douglas (?Dunn) read 'At Grass' [CP29]; and a (Thomas) Hardy review Larkin is writing. (1p)
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Letter about Thwaite being sacked from 'The New Statesman' which Larkin read about in 'The Bookseller'. (1p plus envelope)
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Letter discussing Thwaite's sacking by Anthony Howard from 'The New Statesman'; and the death of Cecil Day - Lewis, who Larkin saw a month before at Kingsley Amis', and speculation as to who will be the next poet laureate. (1p, plus envelope)
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Briefly discusses going to visit Thwaite at the University of East Anglia, where Larkin is due to give a poetry reading, referring to Rupert Brooke, Walt Whitman and T. S. Eliot; and a letter by Thwaite in 'The Times' concerning John Gross taking over Thwaite's job as Literary Editor of 'The New Statesman', making reference also to Karl Miller. (1p, plus envelope). Letter is printed in SL459.
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Refers to some parodies sent to him by Thwaite; three interviews he has recently given to a Coventry paper, 'The Guardian' and 'The Radio Times'; Douglas Dunn; building up the Thwaite collection in the University; and revisions of 'The Oxford Book of Twentieth Century English Verse'. (2pp, plus envelope)
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See also 1/58.
Discusses the BBC programme 'Larkin at Fifty' (broadcast on Radio 3, 8 August 1972), Thwaite's reading of 'An Arundel Tomb' [CP110], and the BBC's putting the wrong time in 'The Radio Times'. Refers to Douglas (Dunn). (2pp, plus envelope)
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Discusses going to visit Thwaite on 23 November 1972; a new job of Thwaite's (co - editorship of 'Encounter'); the introduction to 'The Oxford Book of Twentieth Century English Verse'; and refers to Charles Tomlinson's pictures in Ely House. (2pp, plus envelope)
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Letter saying there may be a problem with his visit on 23 November 1972 due to the threatened rail strike, and asks if he could stay during his next visit, on 6 December 1972. Tells Thwaite how many blankets he has on his bed. (1p, plus envelope)
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Would like to stay at Thwaite's on 6 December 1972, when he will bring the introduction and photographs from 'The Oxford Book of Twentieth Century English Verse', for which he now has a publication date of 27 March 1973. (1p, plus envelope)
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Discusses or refers to Thwaite's job (joint editor) at 'Encounter'; the imminent publication of 'The Oxford Book of Twentieth Century English Verse' and George MacBeth's suggestion that Thwaite interview Larkin about it for the BBC; Larkin publishing a poem (unnamed) in 'The Listener' with reference also to 'The Building' [CP191] and Derwent May; and some papers of Thwaite's which Larkin is interested in for the University (see also 1/53). (1p). Letter is printed in SL472.
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Discusses Thwaite interviewing Larkin about 'The Oxford Book of Twentieth Century English Verse', with Larkin asking Thwaite not to press too hard over omissions from the book, referring to Seamus Heaney, Norman Nicholson, May W. Cannan, Susan Miles, Geoffrey Grigson, Alfred Noyes and Sir John Squire; and mentions George Hartley. (2pp, plus envelope)
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Letter about the publication of and reaction to 'The Oxford Book of Twentieth Century English Verse', discussing or making reference to a mis - quote in 'The News of the World' about David Holbrook; (?Donald) Davie; 'The Stand', 'The Review', 'Ambit', and the 'Review of English Studies'; C. Foyle's Literary Lunch; John Betjeman writing in 'The Sunday Times'; George MacBeth; Thom Gunn; Larkin having lunch with the Queen on publication day; David Jones and 'In Parenthesis'; and Thwaite's 'Inscriptions', making particular reference to the title poem and to the poems 'Sweden's Plundering' and 'Sea'. (4pp, plus envelope)
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Letter discussing 'The Oxford Book of Twentieth Century English Verse', which has missed out part of William Empson's 'Aubade' (noticed by Christopher Ricks) and part of Thom Gunn's 'The Byrnies', making reference to 'The Listener' and to C. Foyle (and a literary lunch she is having for the 'Oxford Book of Twentieth Century English Verse'). (2pp, plus envelope). Letter is printed in SL477.
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Discusses or refers to the Cholmondeley Award; a lunch at the Dorchester (organised by C. Foyle for the publication of 'The Oxford Book of Twentieth Century English Verse'); 'The Oxford Book of Twentieth Century English Verse' being controversial, with reference to David Jones, Richard Aldington, Elizabeth Daryush and (?Donald) Davie; Sarajevo; John Betjeman and the poet laureateship; and Derek Stanford's book 'John Betjeman: A Study' (though Larkin says it is Derek Patmore). (2pp, plus envelope). Letter is printed in SL480. Signature is written in different coloured inks.
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Brief letter discussing Larkin's citation at the presentation of an honorary degree to John Betjeman (who gave Larkin a volume of songs by Douglas Byng) and outlining a few changes which he made to his speech, which will be printed in the Hull University 'Gazette'. Refers to (Robert) Lowell. (1p, plus envelope)
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Discusses not giving Thwaite his support for some proposal, making reference also to Sam Wanamaker on Shakespeare, and John Betjeman; the possible publication in America of 'High Windows' but they want to leave the poem 'Posterity' out [CP170]; the deaths of W. H. Auden and William Plomer; a poetry lectureship due to come up at Hull, making reference to Douglas (?Dunn); and 'Fee Knicks' ('Phoenix') and HC (Harry Chambers). (2pp)Letter is printed in SL489.
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Sends Thwaite a copy of 'Show Saturday' [CP199, not present] asking his opinion of it and wondering whether to put it into 'High Windows', referring also to 'Letter to a Friend About Girls' [CP122] and 'Encounter'. Also refers to the Arts Council planning to subsidise Creative Writing Fellowships, mentioning Douglas Dunn; the Chambers' thing (Larkin edition of 'Phoenix', edited by Harry Chambers); the American publication of 'High Windows' and leaving 'Posterity' [CP170] out (see also 1/64); and Larkin having to find a new place to live. (2pp) Letter is printed in SL494.
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Discusses 'Poetry Today' with particular reference to the part about himself, Bob Cobbing, Roy Fuller, and a poem by Thwaite ('Inscriptions'). Refers to having to move house; and the publication of 'High Windows' and the NUM (National Union of Mineworkers). (4pp, plus envelope). Letter is printed in SL495.
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Discusses Thwaite's judgement on 'Show Saturday' [CP199] (see also 1/65) and his general support of Larkin, referring to Henry Arthur Jones and George Bernard Shaw. Also discusses or refers to a French translation of 'Livings' [CP186]; Geoffrey Hill and Charles Tomlinson, mentioning 'Mercian Hymns'; and Larkin being the curator of the Philip Larkin collection, held at the Brynmor Jones Library, University of Hull. (4pp, plus envelope). Letter is printed in SL497.
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Brief letter referring to Peter Russell, the Tuesday Club and Teddy's Thursdays; Donald Davie (in response to Davie's reviews of 'The Oxford Book of Twentieth Century English Verse'); Michael Hamburger's 'A Mug's Game'; Hull University's Creative Writing Fellowship; the 'Lyrical Ballads' (William Wordsworth); and speculation as to the next Poet Laureate, with mention of Peter Porter. (2pp, plus envelope). Letter is printed in SL499.
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Discusses or refers to Thwaite's 'New Confessions', referring to W. H. Auden's 'The Orators' and Saint - John Perse; Dan Jacobson doing an interview with Larkin; having his house decorated; and Clive James. Letter begins with a five line rhyme. (2pp, plus envelope). Letter is printed in SL504.
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Sends Thwaite some poems sent to him by T. F. Griffin (from Hull) and asks his opinion on them (not present). Refers to Donald Davie. (1p)
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Discusses mainly 'High Windows' with reference to Clive James' review of it (and also to James' book 'The Metropolitan Critic' with reference to John Conteh, Sidney Keyes and Theodore Roethke), a misprint in the poem 'Vers de Soci,t,' [CP181], and W. H. Auden's 'Look, Stranger!' Also briefly discusses Thwaite printing 'The Pursuer' by T. F. Griffin (see also 1/70); and refers to the BBC and Charles Monteith. (1p, plus envelope). Letter is printed in SL506.
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Letter discusses lunch at the Garrick, referring to Charles (?); Larkin moving house; reviews of 'High Windows' and Thwaite's 'New Confessions', both in 'The Times', and Ann (Thwaite) and Kingsley Amis; and the Oxford Professor of Poetry (John Wain) visiting Hull. (2pp, plus envelope and change of address card)
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Discusses moving house, with reference to Monica Jones and receiving honorary degrees from St. Andrews and Sussex; 'TLS' review of Thwaite's 'New Confessions'; 'High Windows' selling out; writing of Larkin's bibliography by Barry Bloomfield ('Philip Larkin : a bibliography 1933 - 1976', 1979), referring to Auden; and mentions Michael Horovitz. (2pp, plus envelope). Letter is printed in SL511.
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Asking Thwaite for a poem or poems to be included in the Poetry Book Society Christmas Supplement which Larkin is editing this year. (1p)
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Mainly discusses his reasons for not wanting to review Creighton on Thomas Hardy ('Poems of Thomas Hardy: a new selection', selected, with an introduction and notes, by T.R.M. Creighton) making reference to Lambert (?J. W. of the 'Sunday Times'), ?Gregor and ?White, and David Holbrook. Also refers to trying to settle into his new house. (2pp, plus envelope)
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Briefly discusses or refers to the Creighton ('Poems of Thomas Hardy: a new selection', selected, with an introduction and notes, by T.R.M. Creighton), mentioning 'Encounter' and 'The New Statesman'; Thwaite's poem 'Witch Bottles' for the Poetry Book Society Christmas Supplement which Larkin is editing, mentioning Roy Fisher and Bob Conquest; and 'High Windows' being out of print with mention of Thwaite PSre in 'The Observer', and Kingsley Amis. (1p, plus copy of a page from the 'New Statesman', 9 August 1974)
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Discusses a photograph he sends to Thwaite, and reading 'The Rachel Papers' (Martin Amis); his reading at Oxford, with reference to John Wain and John Heath Stubbs; the deaths of Connolly (?Cyril) and an Oxford Don (unnamed); and Thwaite's poetry book (?'Poetry today, 1960 - 1973'). (1p)
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Refers to a review by Larkin on Wilfred Owen with reference to Jon ?Stallworthy; Monica Jones; Charles Osborne; 'High Windows'; Peter Allcock in 'The Spectator'; and Douglas (?Dunn) with reference to the 'New Statesman', 'The Spectator' and 'The New Review', and Lyman Andrews and Auden. (1p)
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Thanks Thwaite for writing to tell him about the Mermaid (Theatre) reading ('An Evening Without Philip Larkin') making reference to George Hartley, Harry Chambers reading 'The Life With A Hole In It' [CP202], Charles Monteith and 'An Arundel Tomb' [CP110]. (1p, plus envelope). Letter is printed in SL522.
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Discusses enquiring about the 'Phoenix' archive from Harry Chambers; Douglas Dunn returning from Hebdon Bridge and Larkin collecting an award from the Ilkley Festival; Ted Hughes coming to Hull to read; and 'Mr. Warrener' (Thwaite poem) with reference to the BBC. (1p, plus envelope)
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Refers to a letter he received from Thwaite; and the congratulations he received (for the CBE). (2pp, plus envelope). Letter is printed in SL526.
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Larkin agreeing to do a review for Thwaite on the Gibson 'Complete Poems' ('The complete poems of Thomas Hardy'), with reference to Gittings; and going over to collect for inspection the 'Phoenix' archive from Harry Chambers. (1p)
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Briefly discusses Alan Brownjohn's British Council booklet on Larkin (?'Philip Larkin', edited by Ian Scott - Kilvert. 'Writers and their work' series, number 247); and Larkin selling his review of Thomas Hardy's 'Collected Poems', which he did for 'Encounter', to the MacMillan Press to go in 'Thomas Hardy after Fifty Years'. Refers to Ann Thwaite and Edmund Gosse. (1p)
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Refers to Larkin's Thomas Hardy review for 'Encounter' which he is having difficulty with; the Rare Books Group of the Library Association; going to receive a prize in Hamburg in April; Faber and Faber and the possibility of a revised Timms ('Philip Larkin' by David Timms); Alan Brownjohn; Thwaite going to Pakistan; and 'Encounter'. (1p, plus envelope)
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Brief letter about Larkin's review of 'Thomas Hardy: The Complete Poems' for 'Encounter', which he may not meet the deadline with. (1p, plus envelope)
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Withdrawing from writing a review of 'Thomas Hardy: The Complete Poems' for 'Encounter', which he has been having difficulty with (see also 1/84 and 1/85). (1p)
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Discusses withdrawing from writing a review of 'Thomas Hardy: The Complete Poems' for 'Encounter', which he has been having difficulty with (see also 1/84, 1/85 and 1/86), referring to his forthcoming Hamburg speech (he was going to collect a prize in April) and Library Conference speech. Refers to Thwaite's trip to Pakistan. (1p, plus envelope)
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Briefly discusses 'My Oxford' (Thwaite poem); and a Trigorin remark with reference to Tolstoy (no more details are given). (1p, plus envelope)
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Briefly discusses Larkin and Monica Jones visiting Dorset, including the graves of T. S. Eliot and T. F. Powys, and A. Powell and Barbara Pym amongst the living; Kingsley Amis' new novel ('The Alteration') with reference to (?Gilbert Keith) Chesterton and (Rudyard) Kipling; and limericks Larkin keeps receiving from Robert Conquest. (2pp, plus envelope). Letter is printed in SL549.
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Discusses a book by a friend (no details given) with reference to Donald Davie; the Hamburg trip where Larkin was given the Shakespeare prize; and reading a two volume book recommended by Thwaite in 'The Observer' on Emily Dickinson ('The life of Emily Dickinson', Richard Benson Sewall). (1p)
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Discusses not writing anything except a Jubilee poem for the Queen; writing an article on Barbara Pym for the TLS; listening to a lecture on Islam instead of a planned address by the Poet Laureate (John Betjeman) who cancelled, at the Hull Literary and Philosophical Society; 'Larkinland' (audio cassette) with reference to Charles Monteith; and reading Sewall's book on Emily Dickinson ('The life of Emily Dickinson', Richard Benson Sewall). (2pp, plus envelope). Letter is printed in SL557.
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Discusses trying to arrange a visit to Thwaite, with reference to visiting Charles Monteith in Oxford; D. H. Lawrence; 'A Portion for Foxes' (Anthony Thwaite), the Poetry Book Society and William Trevor; and a possible student sit-in the following day. (2pp, plus envelope)
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Discusses not being able to visit (see 1/92) due to a visit of the Burgomaster of Rotterdam to Hull University; dining with the Dunns (Douglas Dunn and his wife) the previous evening in their new house; and the test match (England versus Australia). (2pp, plus envelope)
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Discusses 'A Portion for Foxes' (Anthony Thwaite) with reference to (Louis) MacNeice and the PEN (International PEN. Official name PEN: never spelled out in use, is said to stand for poets, playwrights, editors, essayists, novelists) anthology; being a Booker judge; and an anthology from Moscow, where the first poem of 'The North Ship' ('All catches alight') appears under the title 'Bruce Montgomery' (to whom it was dedicated). (2pp, plus envelope). Letter is printed in SL567.
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Giving reasons why he does not want to write about Robert Lowell; and invites Thwaite to a dinner at All Souls. Refers to Thwaite having been in Libya; and 'Encounter'. (1p, plus envelope)
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Refers to Thwaite being Larkin's guest for dinner at All Souls on 19 November 1977, and John Carey being Charles Monteith's guest; and Red Rum. (1p, plus envelope)
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Briefly discusses 'Letter to a Friend about Girls' [CP122]; and the 'Harvard Review' wanting 'Aubade' [CP208] with reference to the 'TLS'. (1p, plus envelope)
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Discusses 'Letter to a Friend about Girls' [CP122]; different alcoholic drinks; and an article about Kingsley Amis in the 'Cambridge Review', referring also to Ted Hughes and Ezra Pound. Refers to 'The Observer', quoting part of 'None of the books have time' [CP124]; Douglas Dunn; and Clive James. (2pp, plus envelope). Letter is printed in SL576.
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Discusses wanting to contribute to twenty - fifth anniversary number (of 'Encounter') but not feeling like he has anything to write, referring to 'Lyons and Shudders' (reference to Christopher Isherwood's 'Lions and Shadows'); and the possibility of visiting the University of East Anglia to look at the library system, referring also to going to visit Charles Monteith in Oxford. (1p)
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Brief letter referring to a visit to the University of East Anglia; visiting Oxford (to see Charles Monteith); and Douglas Dunn no longer reviewing for 'Encounter'. (1p, plus envelope)
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Refers to not giving anything to be published in 'Encounter'; trying to review Kingsley Amis' anthology ('The new Oxford book of light verse', or possibly 'The Faber popular reciter') which Thwaite has already reviewed; trying to lose weight; and (?Richard) Hoggart playing a 'Gosse - on - Hardy' record. Refers to 'Victorian Voices' by Thwaite (published in 1980). (2pp, plus envelope)
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Sending Thwaite a copy of the talk he gave to the Manuscripts Group of the Standing Conference of National and University Libraries (21 - 22 March 1979) offering Thwaite first world serial rights (copy is not present). (1p)
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Brief discussion of some proofs (of a talk Larkin gave to the Manuscripts Group of the Standing Conference of National and University Libraries, 21 - 22 March 1979), making reference to SCONUL and Boston Spa. (1p)
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Thanks Thwaite for sending 'The Second Mrs. Hardy' (Robert Gittings) for review; briefly discusses his visit to Thwaite, referring to a lunch - time reception at Martini Terrace, and John Holloway; and hoping to visit again. (1p)
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Letter discussing the possibility of the Brynmor Jones Library (University of Hull) purchasing further manuscripts of Thwaite's, referring to Charles Osborne, the Manuscript Sub - Committee and the Arts Council of Great Britain (see also 1/106). (1p)
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Letter thanking Thwaite for the weekend, and acknowledging formally receipt of further manuscripts of Thwaite's for Larkin's consideration (see also 1/105). (1p, plus envelope)
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Refers to a visit arranged by Andrew Motion for Thwaite; Larkin's doctor dying of leukaemia; writing on AEH (?A. E. Housman); and still not having looked at Thwaite's manuscripts (see 1/105 and 1/106). (1p, plus envelope)
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Refers to a visit (of Thwaite to Hull) and some photographs; an interview with Larkin in 'The Observer'; and a card from Ann Thwaite to Larkin referring to watching the Pageant from his father's (Sydney Larkin) office window and Lady Godiva. (1p)
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Letter making a formal offer for some of Thwaite's manuscripts (see also 1/105 - 1/107); and referring to his interview in 'The Observer' and to the amount of mail he has had in response to it (and in particular to a man who sent Larkin a copy, amongst other people, of a letter he wrote to Enoch Powell). (1p, plus envelope)
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Discusses an offer for Thwaite's manuscripts, with mention of the Manuscript Committee and the Arts Council of Great Britain (see also 1/105 - 1/107 and 1/109); the 1982 volume about Larkin which became 'Larkin at Sixty', referring to 'The Less Deceived'; Barbara Pym's funeral, referring to Alan Maclean of MacMillan's and T. S. Eliot; and a John Haffenden interview for 'The London Magazine'. Refers to D. H. Lawrence's letters. (2pp, plus envelope). Letter is printed in SL614.
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Brief covering note accompanying the information (enclosed) for Thwaite's ms(s), mentioning 'Encounter', 'A Portion for Foxes', 'Mr. Cooper', 'Ali ben Shufti', 'Victorian Voices', the BBC and Louis MacNeice. (1p, plus envelope and notes on Thwaite ms(s))
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Discusses the piece written by Noel Hughes for 'Larkin at Sixty', and also refers to his father (Sydney Larkin), Germany, and his childhood house; and visiting All Souls and Eton on successive nights with reference to Robert Franklin, Tony Benn and Andrew Motion. Also refers to getting letters from somebody in India, and the Poetry Society; (?Malcolm) Bradbury; and Charles (Monteith). (2pp). Letter is printed in SL622.
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Refers to Thwaite's fiftieth "saturnalia" which he (Larkin) missed, with reference to Charles Monteith, John Betjeman's 'Oxford University Chest', Harold Macmillan, the Newdigate poem being on 'Inflation', the Archbishop of Canterbury and A. D. Powell; a dispute he is having with George Hartley over a tape Larkin made for the American Foundation, and one he is having with 'Encounter' over his review of 'The Second Mrs. Hardy' by Robert Gittings and Jo Manton (review was called 'Dull Beyond Description'); Andrew Motion going to Oxford on an Arts Council grant for a year; and Larkin writing a short introduction for a Poetry Library catalogue. (2pp, plus envelope). Letter is printed in SL62 Letter is TS dated 6 June 1980 and AS "July really" is added.
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Refers to the Arts Council Literature Panel; Thwaite's 'Victorian Voices', referring also to ?Robert Browning and Paul Muldoon; cutting down on drinking; 'Aubade', Tom Stoppard, Harold Pinter and Lady Violet Powell; reading new life of Tennyson book (by Robert Bernard Martin - 'Tennyson: the unquiet heart'); and giving photographs of himself for book ('Larkin at Sixty') with reference to Charles Monteith. (2pp, plus envelope). Letter is printed in SL629.
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Letter mainly discussing 'Larkin at Sixty', in particular the pieces by Noel Hughes and George Hartley, and referring to Sydney Larkin and 'The Link' organisation; Oxford and Coventry; Hessle Road photographs; the Marvell Press; Ian Hamilton; and Bob (Conquest). (2pp). Letter is printed in SL645.
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Discusses 'Larkin at Sixty', particularly the photographs to be used. Refers also to the Morgan (?); Noel Hughes; Clive James and Dr. Johnson; Judy Egerton; and Monica Jones. (2pp)
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Is sending Noel Hughes' contribution to 'Larkin at Sixty' back (not present) commenting on the remarks Hughes made about Sydney Larkin and referring to Dame Edith Sitwell and Charles Monteith. (1p). Letter is printed in SL648.
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Refers to Thwaite no longer writing a critical book about Larkin; Andrew Motion ('Philip Larkin', part of the 'Contemporary writers' series) with reference to Barbara Everett, Mallarm,, Charles Madge and 'The North Ship'; 'Larkin at Sixty' with reference to Charles Monteith, the 'South Bank Show', Melvyn Bragg and Andrew Snell; Douglas Dunn with reference to Seamus Heaney and a visit by Dunn and Thwaite to Yugoslavia; and 'Gosse Weddings' (?) referring also to R H - D (?Rupert Hart - Davies) and H. Montgomery Hyde. (2pp, plus envelope). Letter is printed in SL658.
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Discusses a possible visit to Thwaite whilst attending a conference on International Developments in Rare Book Policy; his gas warm - air unit burning out; student sit - ins at Hull University library; drinking too much; and the forthcoming South Bank Show referring to Andrew Snell. Also refers to Kingsley Amis; Bob (?Conquest); Barry Bloomfield; and Roy Hattersley doing a programme on Larkin for BBC TV ('It's my pleasure'). (2pp, plus envelope)
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Mainly letter of thanks for the visit (Larkin visited the Thwaite's when he attended a Rare Book Policy conference at UEA (University of East Anglia? - see also 1/119). Refers also to Andrew Snell; George Hartley; and Barry Bloomfield. (2pp, plus envelope)
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Mainly discusses 'Larkin At Sixty'; the South Bank Show programme with reference to Andrew Snell, 'Posterity' [CP170], 'This Be the Verse' [CP180], 'Talking in Bed' [CP129], 'The Whitsun Weddings' [CP114], 'An Arundel Tomb' [CP110], Christopher Ricks, Andrew Motion, Kingsley Amis, Noel Hughes and Alan Bennett; and a Faber party. (2pp, plus envelope). Letter is printed in SL671.
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Refers to IRA bombs; the Queen (Elizabeth II); D. H. Lawrence; ASLEF ('Associated Society of Locomotive Engineers and Firemen'); reviews of 'Larkin at Sixty', with reference to Patric Dickinson in 'The Times' and OxBo ('The Oxford Book of Twentieth Century English Verse'), Russell Davies in the 'TLS', Faber and Faber, and Andrew Motion; visiting a man in Oxford who collected Betjeman material; A. L. Rowse; and Christopher Ricks and Jonathan Raban. (2pp, plus envelope)
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Briefly discusses or refers to Paddy Khan (?) and 'Larkin at Sixty'; Yeats; 'Required Writing' with reference to Charles Monteith; an enquiry from Oxford University Press about updating OxBo ('The Oxford Book of Twentieth Century English Verse'), with reference to Dennis Enright and Craig Raine; a Dutch volume of translations which includes 'The Card Players' [CP177]; the new Betjeman by Bevis Hillier (?'John Betjeman: a life in pictures'), mentioning also 'The Observer'; Piers Plowright and TLD ('The Less Deceived'); and Christopher Reid. (2pp, plus envelope)
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Discusses Larkin's essay 'Not the place's fault', referring also to Neil Powell; a PBS (Poetry Book Society) meeting with reference to Andrew Motion, Michael Schmidt, Graham Martin, Andrew Wilson, Geoffrey Hill and Ted Hughes; Larkin buying a new car and running Monica Jones back to Haydon Bridge in his old one; and Geoffrey Grigson. (2pp, plus envelope). Letter is printed in SL684.
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Discusses the possibility of both Thwaite and Andrew Motion being executors of his will; telling Blake Morrison he will review D. J. Enright's 'The Oxford Book of Death' (for 'The Observer'); his own 'Oxford Book of Twentieth Century English Verse' going into paperback; and Kingsley Amis. (2pp, plus envelope). Letter is printed in SL688.
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Discusses Thwaite and Motion in relation to his will; reviewing with reference to Blake Morrison, John Betjeman, D. J. Enright's 'The Oxford Book of Death' and the Powys Brothers; 'Required Writing' and 'Larkin at Sixty'; and refers to N[oel] H[ughes]. (2pp, plus envelope and Sassoon cutting). Letter is printed in SL690. A newspaper clipping about the publication of extracts from Siegfried Sassoon's war diary is enclosed. Letter is signed A. E. Larkin.
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Mainly discusses Monica Jones getting ill with shingles whilst they were in Haydon Bridge. Also briefly discusses or refers to the 'Grand National' and CorbiSre (race horse); Larkin's review of D. J. Enright's 'The Oxford Book of Death' (for 'The Observer'); and a literary occasion in connection with the 'Arvon - Observer' prize, referring also to Sotherby's. (7pp, plus envelope). Letter is printed in SL693.
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Discusses Monica Jones' illness (see 1/127) with reference to Lord's (cricket ground); a recording Larkin has done for Faber and Faber with Douglas Dunn on the other side ('Douglas Dunn and Philip Larkin' - a Faber poetry cassette, 1984), making reference to Craig Raine, George Hartley and Charles Monteith; and 'Required Writing'. Refers to Joanna M. [Motion]; Andrew [Motion]; and Andrew Wilson leaving 'The Spectator', referring also to Peter Levi. (2pp, plus envelope). Letter is printed in SL701.
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Discusses or refers to 'Required Writing'; Monica Jones getting better after her bout of shingles (see 1/127); visiting Oxford; Brynmor Jones; a programme (?which Thwaite is doing); 'Larkin at Sixty'; the collected Thwaite (?'Poems 1953 - 1983') with reference to Peter Porter; Joanna [Motion]; Andrew [Motion]; and Kingsley Amis. (2pp). Letter is dated "Hallowe'en 1983".
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Discusses or refers to Larkin's deputy being made librarian at York University and his secretary retiring; typing out an index for an extended 'All What Jazz'; Kingsley Amis' new book; the death of John Betjeman and the speculation over his successor (as Poet Laureate) with reference to Gavin (?Ewart) and the 'TLS'; Libya; and cutting down on his drinking. (2pp, plus envelope)
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Letter referring to Hazel Holt and Barbara Pym (?discussing 'A very private eye: the diaries, letters and notebooks of Barbara Pym', edited by Hazel Holt and Hilary Pym); Larkin's secretary and deputy both leaving; the Quintons; Encaenia; John Betjeman memorial in Westminster Abbey; Charles Monteith; speculation over the Poet Laureateship; Charles Causley; and the effects of alcohol. (2pp, plus envelope)
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Letter discussing the news that the poet Jonathan Price was suffering from liver cancer, and Larkin writing something for the jacket of Price's next book ('Everything Must Go'); and Larkin reviewing Peter Ackroyd's 'T. S. Eliot' in 'Encounter'. (2pp, plus envelope). Letter is printed in SL717.
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Mainly discusses having difficulties with reviewing Peter Ackroyd's 'T. S. Eliot' for 'Encounter', quoting Churchill on Russia; a photograph of him and his parents on Jersey in 'Larkin at Sixty'; and his secretary and deputy having now both left Hull University library. (2pp, plus envelope)
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Discusses or refers to 'The Times' and 'Encounter'; Thwaite going to Japan, mentioning also Clive James and James Fenton; the problems Larkin is having reviewing Peter Ackroyd's 'T. S. Eliot' for 'Encounter', and problems with reviewing H. G. Wells; and being in Oxford partly for a library conference, referring also to Charles Monteith, John ?Wain, Andrew Wilson, Craig Raine, Barbara Everett and Emrys Jones. (2pp, plus envelope)
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Brief note sent with his review of Peter Ackroyd's 'T. S. Eliot' for 'Encounter'. (1p, plus envelope)
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Discusses or refers to cutting down on drinking; Monica Jones still being ill; Andrew Motion and Blake Morrison doing a reading at Hull as part of their 'Age-of-the-Train' reading tour; John Hall ('New and Selected Poems'); Jonathan Price; Thwaite trying to sell his house; and Ann Thwaite working on A. A. Milne. (2pp, plus envelope). Letter is printed in SL722.
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Discusses feeling unable to recommend John Hall's 'New and Selected Poems' as he only really likes four poems; watching the Cenotaph ceremony; a visit by Andrew Motion and Blake Morrison to Hull as part of their 'Age-of-the-Train' reading tour; and Ann Thwaite's work on AA Milne, with reference to Milne's 'Peace With Honour'. (2pp). Letter is printed in SL722.
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Mainly discusses his deteriorating health; and the positions of both Thwaite and Andrew Motion with regard to Larkin's will, referring also to Monica Jones and his sister, Catherine (Kitty) Emily Hewett (n,e Larkin). Also briefly discusses Thwaite being in Japan; Andrew Motion contemplating marriage with Jan Dalley, and his ex-wife Joanna; Kingsley Amis having trouble selling his house; and Monica Jones' ill health. (4pp, plus airmail envelope). Letter is printed in SL736.
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Discusses his operation to have his oesophagus removed; his deputy librarian, David Baker, being made librarian of the University of East Anglia; Andrew Motion's ex-wife, Joanna, going to Australia; and being visited by Andrew Motion and his new wife Jan [Dalley]. (1p, airmail). Letter is printed in SL745.
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Mainly discusses feeling low and depressed still after his operation (removial of oesophagus). Also, the new book of poems by John Hall called 'New and Selected Poems', making reference to Secker and Warburg (S and W); Douglas Dunn re-marrying; Andrew Motion possibly being in Italy; and having to get a new deputy for Hull University library. Lists John Edward Bowle (friend of John Betjeman's), Cootie Williams (jazz trumpeter) and Laura Ashley as having recently died. Refers to Monica Jones now never leaving the house because of her illness. (2pp, airmail)
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Brief note referring to a review he has written of something by Barnes [Julian] (1p)
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Brief note asking for poems to be used in the 'New Poetry' Third(?) programme Thwaite is producing for the BBC. (1p)
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Brief note thanking Larkin for sending 'The Whitsun Weddings' [CP114] to be included in the 'New Poetry' Third(?) programme Thwaite is producing for the BBC. Refers to Christopher Logue. (1p)
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Brief note asking for poems to be used in the 'New Poetry' programme Thwaite is producing for the BBC. Refers to Larkin sending 'The Whitsun Weddings' [CP114] for the last one. (1p)
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Brief note referring to the deadline for poems to be used in the BBC 'New Poetry' programme Thwaite is producing; remarks made by Larkin in 'The Guardian' with regards 'New poems, 1961', edited by William Plomer, Anthony Thwaite, and Hilary Corke; and Christopher Logue. (1p)
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Thanks Larkin for the poem 'Faith Healing' [CP126] for use in 'New Poetry' for the BBC 'Third Programme', referring to K. W. Gransden (literary editor of 'The Listener'), discussing the poem with particular reference to the word "blort" and its' last line, referring also to George MacBeth (see also 1/7 and 1/147). (1p)
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Thanking Larkin for his letter discussing 'Faith Healing' [CP126] to be used in New Poetry for the BBC 'Third Programme', with particular reference to the word "blort" (see also 1/7 and 1/146). Invites Larkin to spend some time with him in London during August of September; and briefly discusses recording some of his poems for Lee Anderson (from Yale), referring to George (Hartley) and the Marvell Press. (1p)
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Brief note asking for poems to be used in the 'New Poetry' Third(?) programme Thwaite is producing for the BBC, mentioning Larkin's previous offerings of 'The Whitsun Weddings' [CP114] and 'Faith Healing' [CP126]. Refers also to visiting George Hartley in Hessle, with reference to Brian Higgins; and (?W. D.) Snodgrass. (1p)
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Letter referring to a friend of Larkin's (unnamed), who wants to give a talk about university expansion and is looking for a producer, to J. Weltman, producer of the 'Third Programme' talks on education and 'The Critics' on the Home Service (see also 1/10). (1p)
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Letter is response to reading Hughes' article for 'Larkin at Sixty', with particular emphasis on Larkin's hurt feelings about what Hughes says about his father (Sydney Larkin) and his childhood home, referring also to his sister (Kitty Larkin) and Anthony Thwaite. (2pp). Letter is printed in SL648.
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Inviting Thwaite to join the Society of Authors. ALS notes from Larkin and Victor Bonham Carter are added urging Thwaite to join. (2pp)
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U DP/181/2/1 Postcard from Philip Larkin to Miss H Campling, 1958
U DP/181/2/2-25 Postcards from Philip Larkin to Anthony Thwaite, 1958 - 1982
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Acknowledges a letter from her and confirms he will be at Bush House on 20 August 1958.
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Refers to recording of 'The Less Deceived' for the Marvell Press and George Hartley, Walter Gabriel, Christopher Logue and ?William Joyce. Includes an illustration of a head (?Logue) in front of a microphone.
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Is glad Thwaite can use 'Ambulances' [CP132], for BBC Third Programme 'New Poetry'.
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Refers to a party and publication (for Thwaite's 'The Owl in the Tree: Poems')
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Refers to Wilfred Owen (Larkin reviewed 'The Collected poems of Wilfred Owen' in October 1963); and SNM ('Send no money', [CP146]) with reference to Symons (?Julian) in 'The Spectator'.
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Feels unable to write at the moment, making reference to the death of LM (Louis MacNeice) and his book 'Perch' ('The burning perch').
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Instruction to make minor changes to a review of Christina Rossetti by Larkin (?of 'The Rossetti - Macmillan letters').
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Holiday postcard, enjoying being a new motorist by visiting beauty spots.
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Refers to Thwaite's contribution to Dodsworth's thing (? 'The Survival of poetry').
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Holiday postcard. Refers to John Ribaud and Ian Hamilton. Signs himself Charles Warlock Williams.
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Holiday postcard. Refers to a revised version (unspecified); the making of a film called 'Madam Sin' (film released in 1972 called 'Madame Sin'); and the 'New Statesman'.
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Brief note informing Thwaite he has arrived home and thanking him for the accommodation. Refers to ?Knickers Fisher.
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Holiday postcard. Refers to receiving a letter from Thwaite; and getting prints of some photographs (no more details are given).
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Refers to Kuwait; Monica Jones; and having his house painted.
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Holiday postcard. Refers to Betty (?Mackereth, Larkin's secretary) and seeing Thwaite soon.
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Refers to a poem by Thwaite in the 'TLS [Typescript letter signed]' with regard to Ted Hughes.
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Holiday postcard. Is near to Balmoral; includes a two line verse on the Queen (postcard depicts Queen Elizabeth in the year of her Jubilee).
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Holiday postcard. Refers to the Lake District, 'The Ambassadors' (Henry James) and 'The Times' crossword.
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Holiday postcard. Refers to visiting William Wordsworth's birthplace; the test match and India; and 'Salad of the Bad Cafe' (?).
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Picture on the front depicts the Humber Bridge with Larkin referring to Sydney (Australia) and the Golden Gate Bridge; mentions the 'South Bank show'.
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Is going to Oxford, Eton and Leicester. Has been made an associate member of the ?Perf. Rights Society, referring to John Lennon.
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Holiday postcard. Refers to 'Waverley'; job insecurity at Hull; and Charles Monteith (CM) with regards 'Larkin at Sixty' (referred to as "the book").
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Refers to 'Required Writing' (RW) and 'The Whitsun Weddings' (TWW), which has been set as an A - level text. Postcard is date stamped 1983 but Larkin has dated it 1982.
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Holiday postcard from Monica Jones' cottage. Is reading Evelyn Waugh's 'Letters'. Refers to Thwaite's time abroad
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Holiday postcard. Refers to reading Francis King's 'A Domestic Animal', now in paperback.
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Is declining to review 'The History of Cricket' (Henry Surtees Altham) to concentrate on poetry, referring to the 'New Statesman'; refers to V.C.CB regarding "settling terms" (?); ?Ghose and ?Frank Moraes. (1p)
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Labelled a) to i)
Including:
a) Undated Christmas card referring to Oxford University Press doing an erratum slip (?for 'Oxford book of twentieth century English verse')
f) Undated Christmas card referring to the Penguin and Thwaite's poem 'Sunday Trains' (probably referring to 'Sunday Afternoons')
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With hand - written notes on between Anthony Thwaite and Philip Larkin, referring to Charles Monteith, 'Hardy's Love Poems' edited by Carl Weber, and Karl Miller.
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Change of address card with Larkin's new telephone number hand - written on the bottom.
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Written in black and blue ink like a dialogue.
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Handwritten list of poem titles and names.
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