The importance of elsewhere : Philip Larkin's photographs

Larkin’s photographs not only illustrate his poems but also deepen them, offering a superlative, succinct, and subtle biographical commentary. The most widely read British poet of the twentieth century, Philip Larkin was also a passionate amateur photographer, capturing images of the people, places, and things that held significance for him. This collection gathers the best of Larkin's photographic work, organized into thematic chapters in chronological order. Authored by Richard Bradford, known for his biography of Larkin, the book reveals Larkin's acute sensitivity to his surroundings, highlighting his love for open landscapes, empty churches, and his complex feelings about crowds. It features captivating portraits of those closest to him, including lovers, family, and literary peers. The book showcases over 200 images from the Larkin archive at Hull, most of which have never been published before. A substantial foreword by Mark Haworth-Booth, former curator of photography at the V&A, discusses the experience of being a serious amateur photographer during Larkin's era. Together with Larkin's literary works and letters, these images contribute to a richer understanding of his life and influence.