Poem Analysis - Dublinesque

Introduction: A Glimpse of Dublin Life

Philip Larkin's "Dublinesque" offers a poignant snapshot of life in Dublin, blending the solemnity of death with the vibrant, if melancholic, spirit of the city. The poem observes a funeral procession, not of the elite, but of ordinary people, primarily streetwalkers. The tone is initially observational, almost detached, but gradually shifts to a more empathetic understanding of the community's complex emotions, interweaving grief and celebration. This juxtaposition creates a memorable impression of Dublin's unique character, both gritty and strangely beautiful.

Themes of Mortality and Remembrance

One central theme is mortality, plainly evidenced by the funeral itself. The poem doesn't dwell on the specific identity of the deceased, but rather on the collective response to death. The "troop of streetwalkers" following the hearse suggests a community built around shared experiences and possibly hardship. Their presence transforms the funeral into a public act of remembrance, not just for the individual, but for the life they represent. This act of remembrance leads to another theme: love and loss. The singing "of Kitty, or Katy," implies a deeper emotional connection. That name, once a symbol of "all love, all beauty," now embodies the pain of its passing. The singing transforms the funeral into a celebration of that past love, tinged with the sadness of its ending.

Dublin's Beauty in Gray

Larkin uses vivid imagery to paint a picture of Dublin. The poem's opening lines, describing "stucco sidestreets" where "light is pewter" and "afternoon mist/Brings lights on in shops," establishes a subdued, almost somber atmosphere. The color palette is muted, yet specific, creating a strong sense of place. This "pewter" light can be seen as a symbolic representation of the city's blend of beauty and hardship. The mention of "race-guides and rosaries" further grounds the poem in the realities of Dublin life, contrasting the secular and the religious.

Symbols of Community: Hats and Songs

The streetwalkers' attire—"wide flowered hats, / Leg-of-mutton sleeves, / And ankle-length dresses"—serves as a visual symbol of their identity and their community. While potentially flamboyant, the details offer a dignified portrayal of these women. Their presence is not sensationalized or judged, but presented as an integral part of the scene. Moreover, the "voice...singing / Of Kitty, or Katy" becomes a central symbol. The song transforms from a simple lament into a symbol of universal love, loss and memory. The casual addition "or Katy" creates a sense of informality, perhaps someone misremembering a name or the specifics of the lyrics. This imperfection enhances the intimacy of the scene.

Conclusion: The Enduring Spirit of Dublin

"Dublinesque" is a subtle yet powerful poem that captures the essence of a particular moment in Dublin. It does not judge or romanticize; instead, it observes and reflects on the complexities of life, death, and community. By blending imagery with emotional resonance, Larkin reveals the enduring spirit of the city and its people, finding beauty and significance in the most ordinary of circumstances. The poem invites us to consider how we, too, honor those we've loved and lost, and how communities find ways to remember and celebrate life in the face of mortality.