Paul Simon has called Philip Larkin one of his favorite poets; tonight at Cooper Union’s Great Hall, the musician will join an illustrious group honoring the “archetypical English poet of the second half of the 20th century” (per Sunday’s review of the newly published “The Complete Poems”). Joining Mr. Simon will be readers from both sides of the Atlantic, including Zadie Smith, Billy Collins, Adam Gopnik, Mary Karr, and Jonathan Galassi.
Larkin, who died in 1985, is often referred to as a poet’s poet, publishing a scant four volumes of poetry during his life. He was also a jazz aficionado, serving as music critic for The London Daily Telegraph. Tonight, The Queens College Jazz Band will perform some of Larkin’s favorite jazz compositions. More info here.
