Afternoons

This poem is set in 1950's and is about the working class. Larkin's view from this poem is quite snobbish. The political positioning of the poem is generally quite snobbish and judgemental. This poem  may reflect Larkin's feelings and the idea that he's jealous of their care free lifestyle and how they all work together and find relaxed company with one another.

Pathetic Fallacy:

• "summer is fading"- idea that things are changing and growing colder. The seasons coming to an end.
• "unripe acorns"- again the idea of change but the growth and innonce of growing and changing.

People:

• "young mothers assemble"- emphasis is on the 'young' here Larkin may be judging but also the fact they b'assemble' gives a sense of organisation and purpose.
• "Husbands in skilled trades"-  Larkin here seems to have more respect for the males as they work hard in manual labour.
• "setting free"- the children are set free, gives a sense of bordem with little escape.

Changes over time:

• "thickened"- could symbolise the mothers getting older and fatter but also could imply the younger ones are growing up and getting prettier.
• "ruining their courting place"- generations change and traditions/lifestyle get lost or ruined. Perhaps implies a loss of hope between the couples that once met and had fun there.

Social class:

• Larkin never really has a complete negative view on the poorer classes and if he did he hides it within his writing. In this social class no money is needed as they get on with their own life's and are happy enough.
• "setting free"-  this is used in regards to the children, it could show that they have more trust with their children and let them do their own thing as they need to grow up quickly in that environment compared to other social classes.

Techniques:

• no rhyme or consistency- free of things, has no strong feelings.
• Pathetic fallacy- to show their moods and how they change
• Contrast- "summer fading" to "new recreation ground"- new era beginning against the old ending, gives a sense of hope.