There was an idiot on the internet (where else?) that claimed Bukowski only knows how to give good titles to his poetry books while the actual poetry sucked. Well, that idiot should learn that the books are named by editors and publishers, not by the author, and the titles are actually taken from the verses that Bukowski wrote. So, there you go, internet idiot, you just got schooled.
The poems in this book are a mixed bag, as usual, because Bukowski lived by his motto (and grave epitaph) - "DO NOT TRY". Just do. Just let it flow. It doesn't matter if it is garbage, just let it flow. Eventually some diamonds will flow out as well. Yes, some of the poems here are pure garbage that a fourth grader could write better - so what? There are others that could be rated up there with the best poetry every written by a human being.
Bukowski does not edit his poetry. He publishes it all, as it came out from his drunken brain. It is up to the reader to separate the garbage from the diamonds. Don't like that approach? Your time is most valuable? Well, be on your merry way, then, nothing for you here!
Poetry books are difficult to review, since you have to do it poem by poem. This collection is similar to others by Bukowski, which I reviewed previously, dealing with love in the gutter and life in the gutter, describing, in very strong words (dick, shit, cunt, ass, fucking etc. being regularly used), the lowest social classes in the US, their morals (or lack thereof), their values, life priorities and views of the world at large.
