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I think writing about unhappiness is probably the source of my popularity, if I have any - after all, most people are unhappy, don't you think?
Philip Larkin
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Interpretation

What this quote means

Writing about unhappiness resonates with many people, as it reflects a common human experience.

Philip Larkin's quote suggests that his appeal as a writer may stem from the universal theme of unhappiness. By addressing the feelings of dissatisfaction and sorrow that many experience, he connects with readers who find solace in acknowledging their own struggles through his work.

Themes

UnhappinessWritingPopularityPeopleConnection

In practice

Example use cases

When discussing the themes of an author's work in a literary analysis.

More from Philip Larkin

Never such innocence, Never before or since, As changed itself to past Without a word--the men Leaving the gardens tidy, The thousands of marriages Lasting a little while longer: Never such innocence again.
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Uncontradicting solitude Supports me on its giant palm; And like a sea-anemone Or simple snail, there cautiously Unfolds, emerges, what I am.
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Saki says that youth is like hors d'oeuvres: you are so busy thinking of the next courses you don't notice it. When you've had them, you wish you'd had more hors d'oeuvres.
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Above all, though, children are linked to adults by the simple fact that they are in process of turning into them. For this they may be forgiven much. Children are bound to be inferior to adults, or there is no incentive to grow up.
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Originality is being different from oneself, not others.
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I can't understand these chaps who go round American universities explaining how they write poems: It's like going round explaining how you sleep with your wife.
Philip LarkinRead

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