Church Going Essay Plan

Introduction - ‘Church Going’ by Philip Larkin is an example of a poem …
In this essay, I will show / discuss / describe …

The title of the poem contains a pun …

• Title – ironic, as the speaker only visits churches, without worshipping
• Church’s are ‘Going’, i.e. declining
• Theme – decline of religion

The poet uses a strict rhyme scheme to tackle this subject.

• Form – the orderly thoughts of an average person
• He is able to use colloquial language – an ordinary person thinking about common things:
• ‘Brewed God knows how long.’
• Stanza one sets the tone of this poem.
• Sets the scene – a lack of respect
• ‘some brass and stuff
• Up at the holy end;’ – informal language

Sound effects are important from the start of the poem.

• ‘I step inside, letting the door thud shut.’ Contrasts with the ‘tense, musty, unignorable silence’ of the church.
• The poet speaking makes ‘echoes snigger’ – as though his presence is not welcome.

The main symbol running through the poem is the church itself.

• The church itself is described several ways in the poem:
• ‘this cross of ground’
• ‘this accoutred frowsty barn’
• ‘a special shell’
• ‘serious house on serious earth’
• -give chosen quotes some explanation.

Stanza three shows the poet reflecting on the scene and marks a change in tone for the poem.

• Through the middle and final sections the poem poses questions for the reader.
• Melancholy, thoughtful tone

The final stanza contains a note of mild optimism.

‘all our compulsions meet,
Are recognized, and robed as destinies.
And that much never can be obsolete’

- in a higher register than at the start

Conclusion – Therefore I would argue that ‘Church Going’ …