Meaning: The quote refers to the poetry of Philip Larkin and the impact it has had on literature. Philip Larkin was an English poet, novelist, and librarian, best known for his precise and observant poetry. He is considered one of the leading poets of the post-World War II era and is often associated with the movement known as "The Movement," which emphasized clarity, precision, and traditional formal structure in poetry.

The quote suggests that Larkin's poetry is among the best of its time, highlighting the significance of his three mature volumes of poetry. These volumes are likely a reference to "The Less Deceived" (1955), "The Whitsun Weddings" (1964), and "High Windows" (1974), which are considered his most significant collections. Larkin's poetry is known for its brevity, meticulous craftsmanship, and careful arrangement, which is emphasized in the quote.

Robert Morgan, the author of the quote, is a prominent American poet and novelist known for his insightful literary criticism. By acknowledging Larkin's work as the best of its time, Morgan highlights the enduring influence and significance of Larkin's poetry in the literary landscape.

Larkin's poetry is characterized by its exploration of universal themes such as love, death, loneliness, and the passage of time. His language is often plain and unadorned, yet it carries profound emotional weight and insight. Larkin's ability to capture the complexities of human experience in concise and meticulously crafted verses has earned him a revered place in the canon of English literature.

"The Less Deceived" marked Larkin's emergence as a major poet and established his reputation for poetic precision and emotional depth. The collection deals with themes of disillusionment, love, and the transience of life, showcasing Larkin's keen observations and introspective voice. "The Whitsun Weddings" further solidified Larkin's position as a master poet, exploring themes of marriage, memory, and the passage of time. The title poem is regarded as one of his finest works, capturing the poignant beauty of ordinary life.

"High Windows," Larkin's final major collection, delves into themes of mortality, regret, and the search for transcendence. The poems in this volume reflect Larkin's preoccupation with the limitations of human existence and the fleeting nature of happiness. Larkin's introspective and often melancholic tone resonates throughout the collection, offering profound reflections on the human condition.

In addition to his thematic depth, Larkin's mastery of form and structure sets his poetry apart. His use of traditional poetic forms and meters demonstrates a meticulous attention to craft, and his ability to distill complex emotions into concise and accessible language has earned him widespread acclaim.

Larkin's impact on subsequent generations of poets is evident in the continued reverence for his work and the enduring relevance of his poetic themes. His influence extends beyond the realm of poetry, as his keen observations of human nature and the passage of time resonate with readers across diverse backgrounds and experiences.

In conclusion, the quote by Robert Morgan attests to the enduring significance of Philip Larkin's poetry and its enduring impact on the literary landscape. Larkin's meticulous craftsmanship, profound thematic explorations, and enduring influence mark his poetry as some of the best of its time and continue to resonate with readers and writers alike.