Poem Analysis - How Distant

A Longing Look at Youth and Departure

Philip Larkin's "How Distant" evokes a nostalgic, almost wistful feeling for the experience of youth and the possibilities it holds. The poem paints a picture of young men leaving familiar lives, embarking on journeys both literal and metaphorical. There's a sense of romanticism tinged with melancholy, as if the speaker is observing this experience from a distance, both geographically and temporally. The tone is reflective, shifting subtly from observation to a more direct address of the nature of youth itself.

Themes of Departure and Transformation

One of the central themes is departure, both physical and metaphorical. The opening lines depicting "young men / Down valleys" or sailing away on ships establishes this sense of leaving behind the old and venturing into the unknown. This departure isn't just about location; it's also about leaving behind the constraints of "married villages" and societal expectations. This links to another theme: transformation. The young men are not just escaping, they are seeking to redefine themselves, to invent "where they tread," suggesting a proactive, creative approach to their future.

The Illusion of Freedom and Individualism

The poem also touches upon the theme of individualism, though perhaps with a hint of illusion. The young men are "keen / Simply to get away," suggesting a desire for self-determination and autonomy. However, the phrase "Assumption of the startled century / Like new store clothes" hints at the influence of their era. While they may feel they are making unique choices, their understanding of this feeling is also shaped by the expectations and norms of their time. In many ways the decisions feel as if they are "printed out", suggesting how they are not as unique or original as they might perceive. Their freedom, though real, is still framed by the context of the 20th century.

Salty Imagery and the Randomness of Fate

The poem is rich in imagery, particularly those evoking the sea and travel. The "salt-white cordage" and "fraying cliffs of water" create a vivid sense of maritime adventure, while also suggesting a journey filled with potential hazards and uncertainty. A striking image is the "chance sight / Of a girl doing her laundry in the steerage." This seemingly insignificant moment "ramifies endlessly," highlighting the unpredictable and far-reaching consequences of even the smallest experiences during this formative period. This suggests the randomness of fate and how simple occurences can alter the course of ones life in unknown ways.

Youth's Embrace of the New

In conclusion, "How Distant" is a contemplative poem that explores the themes of departure, transformation, and the often-idealized experience of youth. Larkin captures the sense of limitless possibility and the eagerness to embrace the new, but also hints at the constraints and uncertainties that accompany this period of life. The poem's significance lies in its ability to evoke a sense of both nostalgia and a clear-eyed understanding of the complexities of growing up and forging one's own path in the world, all while suggesting that perhaps this vision is seen through the lens of time.