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A review by alingtori
On Writing by Charles Bukowski
dark
funny
reflective
fast-paced
"Creation can't bear up under restrictions." I think this best sums up Bukowski's philosophy in writing.
Reading his letters felt like I was listening to my drunk, crass, and opinionated tito who makes good points. I wouldn't want to talk with him for long periods of time but it's honestly entertaining to read him talk smack about things i.e., pretentious, snobbish people. It's like watching a reality TV show but with more meat, I guess.
Bukoswki talks about writing as if it's his only way to live. And maybe that's the case. He loves writing. That one is obvious. He repeatedly talks about how without writing, he would've gone insane, or dead ("I don't want to make rules but if there is one it is: the only writers who write well are those who must write in order not to go mad."). Not one for structure or formalities, Bukowski writes from within himself—regardless of how people tell you how and what to write. That's why it's incredibly funny how I bought this book, wanting to get tips on how to write, because I'll just be answered with "Don't try."
Reading his letters felt like I was listening to my drunk, crass, and opinionated tito who makes good points. I wouldn't want to talk with him for long periods of time but it's honestly entertaining to read him talk smack about things i.e., pretentious, snobbish people. It's like watching a reality TV show but with more meat, I guess.
Bukoswki talks about writing as if it's his only way to live. And maybe that's the case. He loves writing. That one is obvious. He repeatedly talks about how without writing, he would've gone insane, or dead ("I don't want to make rules but if there is one it is: the only writers who write well are those who must write in order not to go mad."). Not one for structure or formalities, Bukowski writes from within himself—regardless of how people tell you how and what to write. That's why it's incredibly funny how I bought this book, wanting to get tips on how to write, because I'll just be answered with "Don't try."