Draft template of an appeal letter regarding a memorial to Philip Larkin

This material is held atSt John's College Library, University of Oxford

Scope and Content

TS draft template for a letter – from Richard Wilberforce, Baron Wilberforce (1907-2003, Lord of Appeal in Ordinary, Chancellor of the University of Hull between 1978 and 1994), Kingsley Amis (1922-1995, English writer and critic), Max Wyndham, 2nd Baron Egremont (1948-, British biographer and novelist, chairman of the Friends of the National Libraries since 1985), Ted Hughes (1930-1998, English poet and children’s writer) and Andrew Motion (1952-, English writer). Leaves stapled in the top left corner. Reviews private and public responses to the death of Philip Larkin in general terms. Suggests the existence of “a widespread desire to establish a more permanent memorial”, and announces the setting up of an appeal fund “to commemorate his life and work”. Explains purposes of the fund’s use, listing both supporting acquisitions of “modern literary manuscripts for the libraries of the United Kingdom and Ireland” and assisting the University of Hull “in its purpose of establishing a Philip Larkin room in its library”, a room which would house collections relating to him. Expresses hope for the support of “Philip Larkin’s friends, colleagues and readers”, the authors claiming that “the fund would have met with his approval”. Underscored spaces left both for the bank details of the fund and for the name of “The Secretary”. Finally mentions availability of “a leaflet giving details of the appeal and a tear-off slip for any gifts”. Authors’ names and a date printed below the main text. In white paper envelope with transparent address box – stamped with the date and location of postage and labelled “Philip L. Appeal Draft Letter” and “P.L. Appeal”. Accompanied by white paper address slip addressing letter from “Faber and Faber Limited” at 3 Queen Square, London, and to Monteith at his home address.

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