Essential Bukowski
In 'Essential Bukowski', the raw and unapologetic voice of Charles Bukowski comes to life, capturing the stark beauty of life in the margins. This compelling collection presents the most powerful and poignant selections from his vast body of work, showcasing his unfiltered perspective on love, loneliness, and the human condition. Bukowski's gritty realism resonates, inviting readers into the dark corners of his world, where hope and despair coexist. Each piece is a testament to his mastery of language and ability to evoke deep emotions. Dive into a collection that challenges conventions and ignites a passion for the extraordinary within the ordinary.
By Charles Bukowski
Published: 2018
"Find what you love and let it kill you."
Start Listening
What Readers Say About This Book
Edited by Abel Debritto, the definitive collection of poems from an influential writer whose transgressive legacy and raw, funny, and acutely observant writing has left an enduring mark on modern culture. Few writers have so brilliantly and poignantly conjured the desperation and absurdity of ordinary life as Charles Bukowski. Resonant with his powerful, perceptive voice, his visceral, hilarious, and transcendent poetry speaks to us as forcefully today as when it was written. Encompassing a wide range of subjects—from love to death and sex to writing—Bukowski’s unvarnished and self-deprecating verse illuminates the deepest and most enduring concerns of the human condition while remaining sharply aware of the day to day. With his acute eye for the ridiculous and the troubled, Bukowski speaks to the deepest longings and strangest predilections of the human experience. Gloomy yet hopeful, this is tough, unrelenting poetry touched by grace. This is Essential Bukowski.
The Mike & Casey Show
Dive into captivating book discussions with our expert hosts
Key Points from Essential Bukowski
About the Author
Charles Bukowski
Charles Bukowski (1920-1994) was an influential American poet, novelist, and short story writer known for his raw, gritty, and often controversial writing style. Drawing heavily from his own life experiences, Bukowski's work frequently explores themes of love, alcoholism, and the human condition, often set against the backdrop of urban life in Los Angeles. His notable works include the novels 'Post Office', 'Factotum', and 'Women', as well as numerous poetry collections such as 'Love is a Dog From Hell' and 'The Last Night of the Earth Poems'. Bukowski's distinctive voice and unabashed honesty have made him a cornerstone of contemporary American literature.
Book Details
Key information about the book.
- Authors
- Charles Bukowski
- Published
- October 2018
- Publisher
- Ecco
- ISBN
- 006256532X
- Language
- English
- Pages
- 304
- Genres
- Modern LiteratureLiterature
Purchase Options
Buy on Amazon
Buy via BookShopSupport local bookstores: BookShop gives a portion of each sale to independent bookshops!
Similar books you might like →
Stretch
Scott Sonenshein
At the Drive-in Volcano
Aimee Nezhukumatathil
Bloodlands
Timothy Snyder
The Dud Avocado
Elaine Dundy
We Are Not Ourselves
Matthew Thomas
Tough As They Come
Travis Mills, Marcus Brotherton
Killing Zone
Frederick Downs
The Origins of Political Order
Francis Fukuyama
Play It As It Lays
Joan Didion
Can't and Won't
Lydia Davis
Vinegar Hill
A. Manette Ansay
Living Life Backward
David Gibson
The Animal Activists' Handbook
Matt Ball, Bruce Friedrich
Frankenstein
Mary Shelley
Permanent Record
Edward Snowden
From Bacteria to Bach and Back
Daniel C. Dennett, Daniel Clement Dennett
How to Read the Air
Dinaw Mengestu
Dirty Plotte
Julie Doucet
The Glass Hotel
Emily St. John Mandel
You Can Heal Your Life
Louise Hay
Heart of Darkness
Joseph Conrad
Naked Lunch
William S. Burroughs
99% True
Paul McGowan
The Sense of an Ending
Julian Barnes
A Book of Myths
Jean Lang
Sex and World Peace
Valerie M. Hudson, Bonnie Ballif-Spanvill, Mary Caprioli, Chad F. Emmett
The Trouble with Goats and Sheep
Joanna Cannon
We Need to Talk About Kevin tie-in
Lionel Shriver
Take your reading experience to the next level
Download our mobile app to enjoy your favorite books on the go. Get access to exclusive features, offline listening, and personalized recommendations.
Book Collections you might like →
Barack Obama's Book Recommendations
Barack Obama is the 44th President of the United States, serving from 2009 to 2017. As the first African American president, Obama’s leadership marked a historic moment in American history. His administration focused on healthcare reform, economic recovery from the Great Recession, and environmental policies. He is best known for the Affordable Care Act, as well as his efforts to expand civil rights and restore diplomatic relations with Cuba. Since leaving office, Obama has continued to engage in public life through his foundation, focusing on leadership development, civic engagement, and global issues.
View Collection
Kate Beckinsale's Book Recommendations
Kate Beckinsale is a talented English actress who has made significant contributions to film and television rather than literature. She gained international fame for her role as Selene in the "Underworld" film series. Beckinsale has showcased her versatility in various genres, including her critically acclaimed performance in "Love & Friendship," based on Jane Austen's novella "Lady Susan." While she is primarily known for her acting career, she has also written essays and contributed to other creative projects. Her diverse body of work highlights her as a multifaceted artist in the entertainment industry.
View Collection
Alicia Keys's Book Recommendations
Alicia Keys, an acclaimed American singer-songwriter and classically trained pianist, has made significant contributions to the music industry with her soulful voice and compelling lyrics. She burst onto the scene with her debut album, "Songs in A Minor," which earned her five Grammy Awards. In addition to her musical achievements, Keys is also a celebrated author; her memoir "More Myself: A Journey" provides an intimate look at her life and career. She has used her platform to advocate for social justice, co-founding the Keep a Child Alive organization to combat HIV/AIDS in Africa. Alicia Keys continues to inspire through her artistry and activism, leaving a lasting impact on both music and literature.
View Collection
Alexey Moiseenkov's Book Recommendations
Alexey Moiseenkov is a Russian entrepreneur and tech innovator best known for creating Prisma, the groundbreaking mobile app that transforms photos into artworks using artificial intelligence. Though not primarily a literary figure, his work in AI and digital transformation has influenced contemporary discussions on the intersection of technology and art. Moiseenkov's contributions have been featured in various tech and innovation journals, highlighting his impact on modern digital culture. His work underscores the evolving narrative of creativity in the digital age, bridging the gap between artistic expression and technological advancement. Moiseenkov continues to inspire through his ongoing ventures in AI and entrepreneurship.
View Collection
Haruki Murakami's Book Recommendations
Haruki Murakami is an internationally acclaimed Japanese author known for his surreal, magical realist style, blending elements of reality with the fantastical in his novels. His works, such as "Norwegian Wood," "Kafka on the Shore," and "1Q84," have captivated readers with their dreamlike narratives, introspective characters, and deep exploration of existential themes. Murakami's unique voice often explores loneliness, isolation, and the complexities of human nature. His use of metaphors and symbolism has earned him a dedicated global following, and his books have been translated into dozens of languages. A reclusive figure, Murakami avoids public appearances and prefers to let his work speak for itself, although he occasionally writes essays and non-fiction on topics such as running, jazz, and literature. Murakami has been a strong contender for the Nobel Prize in Literature for years, and his influence on contemporary fiction is undeniable. Beyond his writing, Murakami is also an avid marathon runner and music enthusiast, elements that often appear in his narratives.
View Collection
Abi Tyas Tunggal's Book Recommendations
Abi Tyas Tunggal is a distinguished author known for his impactful contributions to contemporary literature and digital content. He has garnered acclaim for his insightful storytelling and adept handling of complex themes, resonating with a diverse readership. Tunggal's work often explores the intersections of technology, society, and human experience, making him a prominent voice in modern narrative arts. Beyond his literary achievements, he is also recognized for his innovative use of digital platforms to engage with and expand his audience. Tunggal continues to influence the literary landscape with his thought-provoking and accessible writing.
View Collection
Alain de Botton's Book Recommendations
Alain de Botton is a Swiss-British philosopher, author, and founder of The School of Life, an organization dedicated to teaching emotional intelligence and life skills. De Botton’s books, such as The Consolations of Philosophy and How Proust Can Change Your Life, blend philosophy with everyday life, offering practical wisdom on love, work, and happiness. His work has popularized philosophy, making it accessible to a wider audience. De Botton is also a public speaker and essayist, frequently exploring topics related to human fulfillment and personal growth. His unique approach to philosophy has made him a respected voice in contemporary culture.
View Collection
Jacinda Ardern's Book Recommendations
Jacinda Ardern is a prominent New Zealand politician who served as the 40th Prime Minister of New Zealand from 2017 to 2023. Known for her empathetic leadership, she garnered international acclaim for her handling of the Christchurch mosque shootings in 2019, promoting unity and compassion. Ardern also led New Zealand through the COVID-19 pandemic with a strong public health response. In addition to her political career, she has contributed to literature by authoring several speeches and articles that reflect her progressive values and leadership philosophy. Her legacy includes significant strides in social welfare, climate change policy, and child poverty reduction.
View Collection“Find what you love and let it kill you.”
Essential Bukowski
By Charles Bukowski
Frequently Asked Questions
Explore Our Catalogue
Discover a world of knowledge through our extensive collection of book summaries.