Negation Forms in the Poetry of Philip Larkin

Abstract

This article presents an analysis of negation forms in Philip Larkin’s poetry, specifically forms negated by suffixes and prefixes. Drawing on the literary stylistic analysis approach, as proposed by Geoffrey Leech, we progress from linguistic description to literary interpretation, with the assumption that linguistics and literature should complement one another. We discuss nine poems by Larkin, with the focus placed on patterns that deliver precise understanding of the text’s unifying theme. The major argument is that the frequent use of negation forms by Larkin is not arbitrary; rather its use might illustrate an effort meant to make these forms resonate with the poem’s atmosphere and social contexts. The results suggest that linguistic choices and poetic style have helped Larkin convey messages concerning three themes, namely, 1) uncertainty, 2) futility of life, and 3) agnosticism. By focusing on Larkin’s poems and the ways in which the poems are read, different strands are plaited, and multilevel stylistics approaches help readers to focus on the gaps concerning social contexts that could illuminate other possibilities and meanings.

Keywords

• Agnosticism
• futility of life
• negation forms
• Philip Larkin
• uncertainty
• 不可知论