On Writing

Sharp and moving reflections and ruminations on the artistry and craft of writing from one of our most iconoclastic, pivoting, and celebrated masters.Charles Bukowskis stories, poems, and novels have left an enduring mark on our culture. In this collection of previously unpublished materialletters to publishers, editors, friends, and fellow writersBukowski shares his insights on the art of creation.On Writing reveals an artist brutally frank about the drudgery of work and canny and uncompromising about the absurdities of lifeand of art. It illuminates the hard-edged, complex humanity of a true American legend and countercultural iconthe laureate of American lowlife (Time)who stoically recorded societys downtrodden and depraved. It exposes an artist grounded in the visceral, whose work reverberates with his central ideal: Dont try.Piercing, poignant, and often hilarious, On Writing is filled not only with memorable lines but also with Bukowskis trademark toughness, leavened with moments of grace, pathos, and intimacy.