Charles Bukowski’s Big Low Life w/ Jason Gallagher
Jun 18, 2023
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Poet Jason Gallagher covers the life of Charles Bukowski, America's poet laureate of skid row. They discuss Bukowski's background, writing career, and reputation, as well as his troubled childhood and emotional turmoil. The hosts explore themes of rebellion, transgression, and the potential for dark actions in Bukowski's work. They also delve into his adventurous life on the road, encounters with intriguing individuals, and his association with the poetry scene. The chapter concludes with reflections on Bukowski's writing style, loyalty to independent presses, and his approach to life, death, and writing.
Bukowski's troubled childhood greatly influenced his work, shaping his rebellious nature and providing the foundation for his career as a writer.
Writing became a means of escapism and self-expression for Bukowski, allowing him to confront his fears and fight against injustice.
Bukowski's work is heavily influenced by themes of abuse, isolation, rebellion, and the struggle for meaning, reflecting his own traumatic experiences.
A near-fatal bleeding ulcer marked a turning point in Bukowski's life, leading him to pursue writing poetry full-time.
Bukowski's relationship with Barbara Fry, an editor, provided encouragement and inspired him to continue pursuing his writing career.
Bukowski's romantic relationships were marked by turbulence and on-off dynamics, including a passionate yet volatile relationship with Linda King.
Deep dives
Bikowski's Troubled Childhood: Abuse and Isolation
Bikowski had a difficult and troubled childhood marked by abuse and isolation. His father was physically and mentally abusive, beating him frequently for the smallest imagined offense. He also suffered from severe acne, which further alienated him from his peers. This turmoil and mistreatment greatly influenced his work and shaped his rebellious nature and disdain for authority. Despite these challenges, he found solace in writing, and at a young age, he discovered the power of storytelling as an escape from his difficult reality. Bikowski's childhood experiences would have a lasting impact on his writing and his worldview.
The Power of Writing as an Escape
During his difficult youth, Bikowski turned to writing as a means of escapism and self-expression. He found solace in creating his own stories and characters, immersing himself in fantastical worlds that provided an escape from his troubled reality. Writing gave him a sense of control and a way to process his emotions and experiences. It became a form of therapy, a means to confront his fears, and a tool to fight against the injustices he observed in the world. This early connection to writing laid the foundation for his career as a poet, novelist, and short story writer.
The Influence of Childhood Trauma on Bikowski's Work
Bikowski's difficult and traumatic childhood experiences heavily influenced his work. Themes of abuse, isolation, rebellion, and the search for meaning can be seen throughout his poetry, novels, and short stories. His writing often explores the darker aspects of human nature and the struggle to find one's place in the world. Through his raw and honest storytelling, Bikowski gives voice to the pain and suffering he endured, while also offering a glimpse of hope and resilience. His work serves as a testament to the power of art to transform and heal even in the face of extreme adversity.
Rebirth through Writing Poetry
After a period of disillusionment and heavy drinking, Bukowski began writing poetry following a near-fatal bleeding ulcer. This marked a turning point in his life, as he felt a burst of creativity and a renewed sense of purpose. He left his job at the post office and devoted himself to writing poetry.
First Love and the Track
During this time, Bukowski met Jane Cooney Baker, his first great love. She introduced him to horse racing, hoping it would distract him from drinking. Although he initially found the track silly, he quickly had beginner's luck and began winning consistently. However, his newfound success in betting only fueled his drinking habit further.
Introducing Barbara Fry and Early Poetry
Barbara Fry, an editor from a magazine called Harlequin in Texas, became a prominent figure in Bukowski's life. She praised his work as unique and labeled him a genius. Bukowski, feeling encouraged and inspired, continued to write poetry and exchange letters with Fry, forming a deep connection and planting the seeds for future success in publishing his poems.
Bukowski's journey as a writer
Charles Bukowski, at 47 years old, receives an offer from John Martin to fund him to write full-time. He accepts the offer and begins writing novels. His first novel, Post Office, is a humorous and relatable account of working in a bureaucratic post office. Bukowski continues to submit poems and short stories to small publications, showing his loyalty to those who supported him early in his career.
Bukowski's tumultuous relationships
Bukowski's romantic relationships are marked by turmoil and on-off dynamics. He has various love affairs and one-night stands. One significant relationship is with Linda King, a sculptor and poet. Their relationship is passionate but also volatile, resulting in violence and both physical and emotional abuse. Despite the turmoil, Linda remains connected to Bukowski emotionally, but eventually decides to end the relationship for her own well-being.
Linda's departure and Bukowski's focus on other women
After Linda's departure, Bukowski becomes involved with other women, often having multiple concurrent affairs. He is compelled to share the details of his relationships with Linda, which exacerbates the tensions and contributes to their ultimate breakup. Linda chooses to distance herself from the drama and move on from their tumultuous relationship.
The Complexities of Charles Bukowski's Life and Writing
Charles Bukowski's life and writing were characterized by a mix of vulnerability, bravado, and dedication to craft. He was known for his raw and honest portrayal of sex, relationships, and the gritty side of life. Despite his tough persona, he harbored a sensitive side, as evident in poems like 'Bluebird.' Bukowski's fame grew over the years, and he became a celebrated figure in the literary world, with novels like 'Women' and 'Ham on Rye.' He embraced new media and continued to write prolifically until his death in 1994. Bukowski's impact on the literary scene is still felt today.
The Legacy of Charles Bukowski
Charles Bukowski's unique blend of vulnerability and bravado captured the attention of readers around the world. His uncensored and gritty portrayal of life resonated with many, making him a spokesperson for those at the bottom. Despite his controversies and critics, Bukowski's work remains influential and continues to be celebrated. He left a lasting impact on the literary world, with his poetry and prose speaking to the human experience in all its complexities. Charles Bukowski will always be remembered as a one-of-a-kind writer who fearlessly embraced the darker aspects of life.
Poet Jason Gallagher joins the fellas to cover the life of America's poet laureate of skid row, Charles Bukowski. And listen to the After Dark episode for Patreon subscribers at: patreon.com/artofdarkpod instagram.com/gallagherjason twitter.com/artofdarkpod twitter.com/bradkelly twitter.com/kautzmania https://youtu.be/Z6gNluc_hnw
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