High Windows : With A Letter Signed By The Author Relating To The Book by Larkin, Philip - 1974

The First UK printing published by Faber and Faber, London in 1974. The BOOK and the WRAPPER are both in near Fine condition. Free from inscriptions and a hint of spotting to the lower rear wrapper flap. The wrapper is protected in removable Brodart archival cover. The collection is the last publication of new poetry by Larkin before his death in 1985, and it contains some of his most famous poems, including the title piece, 'High Windows', 'Dublinesque', and 'This Be The Verse' (Containing the memorable lines : 'They f--- you up, your mom and dad / They may not mean to, but they do/ .Man hands on misery to man. / It deepens like a coastal shelf. / Get out as early as you can, / And don't have any kids yourself.'). Loosely laid in is a typed letter, dated 26th April 1976, and signed by Philip Larkin. The letter is on 'The University of Hull' headed paper (Larkin was the librarian for the University). In the letter, Larkin refers to his poem 'Love' and gives his reasoning for not including it in this collection. He goes on to say : ' The writing of poems is a quite unpredictable business, but I should think it is most unlikely that I should have enough for a collection before 1984 at the earliest'.'When I talked about 'assiduity' I meant that I have in my time given a number of interviews (they are probably listed in Timms) and that reading them would show my opinions on most questions it occurs to people to ask me'. The letter has been folded twice but is in Fine condition. Letters signed by Philip Larkin are scarce more-so relating to his poetry. Collectible. More images available on request. Ashton Rare Books welcomes direct contact.