John Betjeman Quotes

A collection of quotes by John Betjeman.

John Betjeman (1906-1984) was an English poet, writer, and broadcaster. He is best known for his witty and nostalgic poetry celebrating British urban and rural landscapes, often focusing on the preservation of historic buildings and the impact of modernization. As Poet Laureate from 1972 until his death, Betjeman played a significant role in popularizing poetry and appealing to a wider contemporary audience. His works, such as "Summoned by Bells" and "A Subaltern's Love Song," reflect his love for England and provide a unique glimpse into the changing social and cultural landscape of the mid-20th century.

Childhood is measured out by sounds and smells and sights, b

Childhood is measured out by sounds and smells and sights, before the dark hour of reason grows.

Topography is one of my chief themes in my poetry..about the

Topography is one of my chief themes in my poetry..about the country,the suburbs and the seaside...then there come's love..and increasingly; the fear of death

Death Poetry Love

Too many people in the modern world view poetry as a luxury,

Too many people in the modern world view poetry as a luxury, not a necessity like petrol. But to me it's the oil of life.

I have a Vision of the Future, chum. The workers flats in fi

I have a Vision of the Future, chum. The workers flats in fields of soya beans tower up like silver pencils, score on score.

People's backyards are much more interesting than their fron

People's backyards are much more interesting than their front gardens, and houses that back on to railways are public benefactors.

Keep our Empire undismembered guide our Forces by Thy Hand,

Keep our Empire undismembered guide our Forces by Thy Hand, gallant blacks from far Jamaica, Honduras and Togoland; protect them Lord in all their fights, and even more, protect the whites.