Coming

Detailed Notes on "Coming" by Philip Larkin

Overview:
Philip Larkin’s poem "Coming" conveys the transition from winter to spring, utilizing nature imagery to express themes of renewal, childhood, and the complexity of gaining understanding in a changing world. The poem is reflective and personal, presenting the speaker's emotional response to the approaching season.

Imagery and Language:

1. Nature: Larkin employs vivid descriptions of light and sound to bring the scene to life.

   • "Light, chill and yellow": This line evokes the atmosphere of early spring, suggesting warmth but also a lingering coolness, indicating the seasonal transition.
   • "Bathes the serene / Foreheads of houses": The use of the word "baths" implies comfort and a comforting glow that lights up the environment; it anthropomorphizes houses, giving them a gentle beauty.

2. Bird Symbolism:

   • The thrush represents nature’s awakening with its song, which surprises the surroundings, portraying a sense of life returning after the bleakness of winter.
   • The phrase "fresh-peeled voice" likens the thrush's song to a new beginning, implying freshness and clarity.

3. Childhood Reflection:

   • The reflection on childhood as "a forgotten boredom" suggests a loss of childhood innocence and the monotony often associated with adult life.
   • The speaker feels a disconnection from childhood joy, juxtaposed with the chaotic happiness of adults around them, highlighting a sense of nostalgia and yearning for simplicity.

Themes:

1. Anticipation and Change:

   • The repetition of "It will be spring soon" suggests impatience and excitement, embodying hope that accompanies the arrival of spring.

2. Innocence vs. Experience:

   • The poem contrasts the innocent laughter of childhood with adult complexities, revealing the difference in perspectives between children and adults.

3. Reconciliation with Nature:

   • The coming of spring signifies not just seasonal change, but also an emotional reconciliation with the past, leading to newfound joy and understanding.

Structure and Form:

• Free Verse: The poem does not adhere to strict rhyme or meter, which reflects the organic and natural themes depicted in the content. Larkin’s choice of a fluid structure allows for personal and introspective exploration of emotions.
• Use of enjambment creates a conversational flow, inviting readers to engage with the rhythm of the poem.

Questions for Consideration:

1. Regarding the Bird: The thrush announces the arrival of spring, echoing the title "Coming" which signifies the anticipation of new beginnings.
2. Childhood's Boredom: The description suggests that the speaker’s childhood was overshadowed by a lack of engagement or excitement.
3. Surprise Elements: The surprise in the scene of adult reconciliation stems from a child’s incomprehension of adult joys and struggles.
4. Comparison in the Poem: The connections drawn between the natural world and human experiences shed light on the relationship between environment and emotion.

Conclusion:

Philip Larkin’s "Coming" beautifully encapsulates the essence of spring as a metaphor for emotional renewal, juxtaposing childhood innocence with adult complexities. Through careful imagery and reflective language, the poem illustrates the profound sense of joy found in the simplicity of nature and the anticipation of new seasons.

Suggested Activities:

• Research regional birds that signify spring in various cultures and the symbolism of these signs.
• Explore other poems on spring, such as those by Wordsworth or Keats, and compare their portrayal of the season with Larkin’s perspective through simpler imagery and emotional resonance.

1. Transition: The poem reflects the seasonal transition from winter to spring.
2. Imagery: Larkin uses vivid imagery to illustrate the beauty of nature awakening.
3. Childhood: The speaker recalls childhood boredom, highlighting a loss of innocence.
4. Bird Symbolism: The thrush signifies renewal, embodying the arrival of spring.
5. Renewal and Joy: Themes of anticipation and joy arise from the changing season.
6. Perspective: Innocence vs adult complexities is a central theme, emphasizing different understandings of joy.
7. Tone: The overall tone shifts from nostalgia to happiness, reflecting the speaker's evolving emotions.
8. Free Verse: The poem's free verse form enhances its organic feel and personal reflection.