The collection is the last publication of new poetry by Larkin before his death in 1985, and it contains some of his most famous poems, including the title piece, "High Windows", "Dublinesque", and "This Be The Verse". The collection contains themes presented in his earlier collections, though the tone of the poems caused critics to suggest the book is darker and more "socially engaged" than his earlier volumes.
The collection represents Larkin's last contribution to new poetry before his death in 1985, highlighting some of his most iconic poems, such as "High Windows", "Dublinesque", and "This Be The Verse". The themes presented are similar to those found in his earlier publications, but the tone is perceived as more intense and socially aware.