the Pugilist

the Pugilist

 

 

 

 

Bukowski spilled his wine

all over my poetry

in rampant disregard

 

he just got another glass

and typed

sitting cross legged at his desk

 

non-apologetic

about his life

his manner

his murmur

of stories

that following of his

oh, my God

the tortured artist

 

with his girlfriend's cheek

imprinted on his fist

 

lovely Man

wrote pain

as he inflicted it

 

He is an anti-hero

with abusive courage

even his words fear him

 

I read him once or twice

spilled my brandy on his words

to get him back

 

he just laughed

and wrote more poems as

I noticed more imprints

on his fist

 

a fistful of poems

and here I thought Clint Eastwood

was too old for that.

 

 

erin-cilberto

12/16/21

Reviews

[Cherrie Palmer]

I'm not a fan. Not of the man or his work. He was a soul without compassion and his words reflected just that. A empty shell full of talent but void of heart.

[Cherrie Palmer]

I want to add I enjoyed the depth of emotion found. The firm stand of another piwt. Nor all writers are happy, nice or likable. We can learn from them all and grow as artists.

[jacob erin-cilberto]

Yes, void of heart...except about himself.
I appreciate all of your comments, Cherrie,
j.

[Ted Kniffen]

Life imitates art ... in the choice of Mickey Rourke to play Bukowski's alter ego. Good movie. Not all poets are good guys ... some are true jackasses. Talent does not equate with goodness I'm afraid.

Good poem j. Love the subject matter and the fine description involved.

Merry Christmas my friend.

[jacob erin-cilberto]

Mickey was perfect for that role.
I am lukewarm on Bukowski's talent....and regard him as little more than an abusive drunk who has a cult following....I know I am in the minority not caring for his writing...but so be it.
thanks, Ted,
j.

[Chris Shaw]

Yes, he has a huge following. You either love this poet or hate him. I never warmed to him. Yes, tortured angry artist, a drunk and a bit of a brute

with his girlfriend's cheek
imprinted on his fist

Ouch I felt that. Great last stanza J.

Did you ever meet him?

Chris

[jacob erin-cilberto]

Did I ever meet Charlie? No thank you...
never would want to...lukewarm to his writing and have no respect for him as a person...
that tortured artist crap gives no one the right to be abusive to others...at least in my book.
thank you, Chris,
and yes, I know I am in the minority of those not liking his work...

[Chris Shaw]

You can add me to the list of non admirers as well :)