Poem Analysis - Be Kind

Introduction: A Rebellious Stance Against Expected Kindness

Charles Bukowski's "Be Kind" is a raw and cynical exploration of societal expectations regarding empathy and understanding, particularly towards the elderly. The poem adopts a tone of defiance, questioning the automatic reverence often afforded to age. Initially, there's a sense of weary resignation as the speaker acknowledges the persistent demand for kindness. However, this quickly transforms into a biting critique, rejecting the notion that age inherently deserves respect, especially when coupled with a life lived without awareness or purpose. The poem ultimately challenges the reader to consider the value of a life lived intentionally versus one simply endured.

The Futility of Unearned Kindness

One of the central themes is the questioning of obligatory kindness. Bukowski rejects the idea that empathy should be automatically extended to everyone, regardless of their actions or choices. The lines "We are always asked / to understand / the other person's viewpoint / no matter how out-dated / foolish or obnoxious" highlight the speaker's frustration with this societal pressure. He directly confronts the expectation that one should "view / their total error / their life-waste / with kindliness," suggesting this is an unreasonable and even insulting demand. The repetition of "asked" emphasizes the persistent and, in the speaker's eyes, unwarranted request for understanding.

The Burden of Responsibility and Deliberate Waste

The poem also delves into the theme of individual responsibility and the consequences of a "deliberately wasted life." Bukowski asserts that age is not merely a matter of time passing; it's the sum total of one's actions. When he states, "Age is the total of / our doing," he suggests that a life lived "out of focus" and with a refusal "to see" is not excusable. The rhetorical questions "Not their fault? / Whose fault? / Mine?" underscore the speaker's rejection of any responsibility for the shortcomings of others. He refuses to absolve them of their choices, particularly when surrounded by "so many / deliberately wasted lives."

Seeing versus Hiding: The Fear of Truth

A key symbol in the poem is the concept of seeing versus hiding. The speaker criticizes those who have "refused to see," implying a deliberate avoidance of truth and self-awareness. The lines "I am asked to hide / my viewpoint from them / for fear of their fear" reveal the speaker's awareness that his own perspective, one that values intentionality and purpose, clashes with the complacency of those who have wasted their lives. He is being asked to participate in a charade, protecting them from the discomfort of facing their own failures. The poem implicitly questions whether shielding people from uncomfortable truths is truly an act of kindness.

Conclusion: A Call for Authenticity Over Obligation

In conclusion, "Be Kind" is not a poem about compassion in the traditional sense. Instead, it’s a stark and unapologetic critique of the expectation to offer unearned empathy. Bukowski champions the value of a life lived consciously and purposefully, suggesting that true respect is earned through responsible action and a willingness to confront reality. The poem's significance lies in its challenge to societal norms, prompting readers to question the automatic reverence afforded to age and to consider the moral implications of deliberately wasting one's life. It ultimately advocates for authenticity and individual responsibility, even if it means rejecting conventional notions of kindness. Is it kinder to offer empty platitudes or to encourage honest self-reflection, even if painful?