Poem Analysis - Finish

Introduction: A Withered Potential

Charles Bukowski's "Finish" is a short, melancholic reflection on unfulfilled potential and the consequences of inaction. The poem uses the simple image of unbloomed roses to convey a sense of regret and lost opportunity. Its tone is somber and resigned, suggesting a disappointment not just in oneself but also in the external world. The poem's brevity amplifies its impact, leaving the reader with a lingering sense of what might have been.

The Stifled Bloom: A Metaphor for Missed Opportunities

The central theme of "Finish" is the tragedy of unfulfilled potential. The roses, a symbol of beauty and blossoming, are presented as "roses / that have never bothered to bloom." This inaction is not accidental; it's a deliberate choice, a lack of effort that leads to stagnation. The poem suggests that the opportunity to flourish was present ("when we should have bloomed"), but it was squandered. This creates a feeling of profound regret, implying that the subjects of the poem (the "we") are now facing the consequences of their passivity.

Sun's Disgust: External Validation and Disappointment

The poem introduces the theme of external validation and the consequences of unmet expectations through the metaphor of the sun. The sun, a source of life and energy, is personified as being "disgusted with waiting." This suggests that the potential bloom of the roses was not only for their own benefit but also for the enjoyment and satisfaction of an external observer (symbolized by the sun). The sun's disgust underscores the disappointment that arises when potential goes unrealized. It highlights the impact of inaction not only on the individual but also on the wider world or those who might have benefited from their bloom.

Imagery of Decay: From Potential to Neglect

The poem's primary image, the unbloomed roses, functions as a powerful symbol of lost opportunity and neglected potential. Roses are conventionally associated with beauty, love, and vibrant life. However, the roses in Bukowski's poem are defined by their inaction, their failure to reach their full potential. This creates a stark contrast, emphasizing the disappointment and wasted opportunity. The image evokes a sense of decay and stagnation, implying that the failure to bloom has not only prevented growth but also led to a slow decline. The sun's disgust can be interpreted as a symbol of judgment or consequence, further reinforcing the poem's message of regret.

Conclusion: A Lament for What Could Have Been

"Finish" is a poignant and concise meditation on the consequences of inaction and unrealized potential. Through the simple yet powerful imagery of unbloomed roses and a disgusted sun, Bukowski captures the feelings of regret and disappointment that arise from failing to seize opportunities. The poem serves as a cautionary tale, reminding us of the importance of effort and the potential consequences of passivity. It leaves the reader pondering the significance of personal growth and the impact of our choices, or lack thereof, on ourselves and the world around us. Perhaps the "we" extends to all of humanity, forever failing to bloom and leaving the sun in disgust.