Summary of Philip Larkin's Poem 'Coming'

• Theme: The poem reflects on the transition from childhood to adulthood, capturing the essence of spring and renewal.
• Imagery: The poem uses vivid imagery, such as 'Light, chill and yellow' and 'fresh-peeled voice', to evoke feelings of awakening and joy.
• Childhood Reflection: The speaker describes their childhood as 'a forgotten boredom', indicating a sense of disconnection from the past.
• Surprise Element: The poem highlights the surprise and joy of encountering adult reconciliations, symbolizing growth and understanding.
• Nature's Role: The thrush's song signifies the arrival of spring, linking nature to human emotions and experiences.

Notes on Philip Larkin's Poem 'Coming'

About the Poet

• Name: Philip Larkin (1922-1985)
• Birthplace: Coventry, England
• Literary Movement: Leader of the 'Movement' in English Poetry in the 1950s
• Notable Works: The North Ship, The Less Deceived, The Whitsun Weddings, High Windows
• Themes: Love, change, disenchantment, the mystery of survival, inevitability of death

Understanding the Poem

1. Bird's Announcement: What does the bird in the poem announce? How is this related to the title, "Coming"?
2. Childhood Description: Why is the speaker's childhood described as 'a forgotten boredom'?
3. Element of Surprise: What causes the element of surprise when the child comes on the scene of 'adult reconciling'?
4. Comparative Elements: What two things are compared in the poem?
5. Response to Imagery: How do you respond to these lines?
   • Light, chill and yellow,
   • Bathes the serene
   • Foreheads of houses
6. Phrase Analysis: Comment on the use of the phrase 'fresh-peeled voice'.

Try This Out

1. Spring Bird: The song of a bird is often the first sign of spring. Do you know the bird that signals the advent of vasant or spring in our country?
2. Spring Poems: Do you know of other spring poems? How is this poem different from them?

Suggested Reading

• Poem: 'Ambulances' by Philip Larkin