This be the verse

[tootsie99]

#1. “ This be the verse “ by Phillip Larkin, is an interesting piece using a variety of the great literature criteria. The first thing I noticed in the passage was the use of the “F” word, which added a feeling of seriousness and some real emotion that grabbed my attention. The next thing I noticed was how Larkin addresses the excerpt to the reader

Comments

This be the verse

[reesa59]

You have made some interesting observations. I also noted the use of the term soppy-stern. This is a very old fashioned way to describe folks considering that the poem was written in the 1970's not the 1870's. Perhaps Larkin is telling us that each generation thinks its miles past the last and our parents are very outdated. I did and am now a parent of a teen myself. I know exactly what she thinks :)

[froggy_1]

I like your comment on Larkin making others feel as though they are not alone, that he was there at one point in his life as well. I like how you brought up the child's innocence in your second paragraph. I also saw this in the short story, maybe because i work with children but that part really hit home for me. I thought it was very story powerful partly because it was written from an innocent image.

[elfling_13]

I love your interpretations, and I agree completely with the mention of sarcasm in Larkin's final words. Also, as you pointed out, the theme crosses cultural, as well as historical, boundaries. Truly universal.

[debbie_g]

Good observations, but a little general. Try always to tie your discussion of broad ideas to specific examples in the text. But you are on the right track!