Kingsley Amis (April 16, 1922-1995) was an English writer best known for his novels, including his 1954 satire on English high education, Lucky Jim (the writer’s description of a hangover is unrivalled in English prose). However, in addition to short stories, more than 20 novels, a grammar, and various essays on a variety of subjects (mostly dealing with drinking), and a book addressing the question of how the common schlub can be James Bond, Amis also wrote six volumes of poetry. His literary career matched that of his close friend and fellow poet, Philip Larkin; however, Larkin first became known as a novelist before turning to poetry, while Amis began with poetry before making a name through his fiction. Amis’s poetry eschewed the exotic and esoteric approach of the earlier generation of poets (and contemporaries such as Dylan Thomas) for a straightforward yet nuanced style.
Kingsley Amis (April 16, 1922-1995) was an English writer best known for his novels, including his 1954 satire on English high education, Lucky Jim (the writer’s description of a hangover is unrivalled in English prose). However, in addition to short stories, more than 20 novels, a grammar, and various essays on a variety of subjects (mostly dealing with drinking), and a book addressing the question of how the common schlub can be James Bond, Amis also wrote six volumes of poetry. His literary career matched that of his close friend and fellow poet, Philip Larkin; however, Larkin first became known as a novelist before turning to poetry, while Amis began with poetry before making a name through his fiction. Amis’s poetry eschewed the exotic and esoteric approach of the earlier generation of poets (and contemporaries such as Dylan Thomas) for a straightforward yet nuanced style.
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