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"Summoned by Bells"

"Summoned by Bells" is a semi-autobiographical poetry collection by Sir John Betjeman, reflecting on his childhood and early life in Victorian and Edwardian England. Through nostalgic and vivid verse, Betjeman explores themes of memory, upbringing, and the influence of church and community. The title suggests a calling or reminder from the past, emphasizing how childhood experiences shape identity. The work balances personal reflection with a broader sense of historical and cultural change, resonating with readers who appreciate introspective poetry rooted in specific place and time.