British Poetry: 1950s-1970s - Larkin, Hughes, and Heaney

British Poetry: 1950s-1970s

This analysis summarizes and discusses the main characteristics of British poetry between the 1950s and the 1970s, with specific reference to the works of Philip Larkin, Ted Hughes, and Seamus Heaney.

A Shift in English Literature

There was a significant shift in English literature during this period, with writers largely avoiding romanticism and modernism. Instead, they focused on writing realistic poetry and novels. Meanwhile, playwrights adopted a more philosophical point of view.

Post-War Dreams and Disappointments

In the aftermath of World War II, a dream for the future emerged, encompassing improved health services, education, and welfare systems. Universities like Oxford, Cambridge, and St. Andrews were no longer the only options for higher education. The democratization of education, with the foundation of new 'red-brick' universities, became a reality, providing access to a new generation of writers from working-class backgrounds.

However, the hopes for equality were not fully realized, and these writers often reflected their disappointment in their work. This group of young people, who shared similar ideals and concerns, became known as the 'Angry Young Men'.

Cultural Production and the Rise of Television

Cultural production was often funded by the government, reflecting a commitment to expanding access to education. The advent of television revolutionized society, marking a clear distinction between traditional culture and the new era. The fragmentation of cultural discourse, coupled with the association of radio with the war, made television a symbol of economic recovery and a desire to move forward, leaving behind the hardships of the past. These changes continued into the 1970s and 1980s with the invention of video.

The Emergence of Youth Culture

This period saw the rise of a new protagonist: the youth. Young people sought their own space and used music as a means of self-expression, widening the generation gap. The parents of these youngsters, having endured the war, desired a better future for their children, but the children often had different aspirations.

Social Liberalization

Another important factor during this period was the passage of laws granting greater individual freedoms. Issues such as abortion, homosexuality, and divorce became more widely accepted during the 1960s and 1970s. Drug use also became prevalent as part of the counter-culture movement.