195 autograph letters signed, 24 typed letters signed and one hand-made greetings card with typed verses to James Ballard Sutton

Item author: Philip Larkin
Item date: 1938 - 52
Grant Value: 2,000
Item cost: 35,000
Item date acquired: 1988
Item institution: Hull University Archives, Hull History Centre
Town/City: Hull
County: Yorkshire

Larkin and Sutton met at school and remained close friends for years. This series of letters form the single most important body of evidence for Larkins formative years. Topics covered include Larkins views on poetry, contemporary writers, jazz, family and friends and Larkins attitude to love and marriage. Donation from Larkin fund

Item Provenance
Christies June 1988, Lot 114