Modesties

Philip Larkin

Words as plain as hen-birds' wings
Do not lie,
Do not over-broider things -
Are too shy.

Thoughts that shuffle round like pence
Through each reign,
Wear down to their simplest sense
Yet remain.

Weeds are not supposed to grow
But by degrees
Some achieve a flower, although
No one sees.

Next 10 Poems

• Philip Larkin : Money
• Philip Larkin : Mother, Summer, I
• Philip Larkin : Mr Bleaney
• Philip Larkin : Myxomatosis
• Philip Larkin : New Eyes Each Year
• Philip Larkin : Next, Please
• Philip Larkin : Night-music
• Philip Larkin : No Road
• Philip Larkin : Nothing To Be Said
• Philip Larkin : Poetry Of Departures

Previous 10 Poems

• Philip Larkin : Mcmxiv
• Philip Larkin : Maturity
• Philip Larkin : Maiden Name
• Philip Larkin : Love, We Must Part Now
• Philip Larkin : Love Songs In Age
• Philip Larkin : Love Again
• Philip Larkin : Long Sight In Age
• Philip Larkin : Lines On A Young Lady's Photograph Album
• Philip Larkin : Like The Train's Beat
• Philip Larkin : Is It For Now Or For Always