Poem Analysis - Finished

A Poet's Resistance to Co-option

Charles Bukowski's "Finished?" is a defiant and darkly humorous response to perceived criticism. The poem's tone is initially sarcastic and defensive, as Bukowski caricatures the critics' vision of his success. However, it shifts to a more determined and even defiant stance as the speaker asserts his continued commitment to his craft. This shift underscores the central conflict: the tension between perceived success and artistic integrity.

The Corrupting Influence of Success

One of the main themes explored in the poem is the corrupting influence of success. Bukowski uses the critics' imagined scenario – champagne, a BMW, and a socialite wife – as symbols of this corruption. These are presented as antithetical to his "earthy and grubby stuff," suggesting that material wealth and social status would inevitably dilute the authenticity of his writing. This theme connects to a broader concern about the artist's struggle to maintain integrity in the face of societal pressures.

Authenticity Versus Conformity

The poem also grapples with the theme of authenticity versus conformity. The speaker worries that he might be "getting to be more like them," a terrifying prospect described as being "as close to death as you can get." Here, "death" symbolizes the death of his artistic voice, replaced by the bland conformity of the mainstream. He resists this fate by urging readers to "measure the poems / as they come off the keyboard" – focusing on the work itself as the true measure of his worth and authenticity.

The Enduring Power of the Creative Spirit

Finally, the poem celebrates the enduring power of the creative spirit. Despite the anxieties about potential co-option, Bukowski asserts his determination not to quit. The lines "After this long fight / I have no intention of / quitting short. / Or late. / Or satisfied" emphasize the tenacity and relentless nature of his creative drive. This suggests that the true artist will continue to create regardless of external circumstances or critical opinions.

Symbols of Decay and Endurance

The poem employs powerful symbols. The images of champagne, the BMW, and the socialite represent a superficial and ultimately destructive form of success. Conversely, the "earthy and grubby stuff" is symbolic of authenticity and a connection to the raw realities of life. The phrase "don't bury me yet" is particularly striking. It is both a literal plea for continued life and a metaphorical insistence on the continued relevance and power of his unique voice. Does the inclusion of Sean Penn indicate a begrudging acceptance of fame, or is it just another satirical jab at the superficiality of celebrity culture?

A Legacy Measured in Verse

In conclusion, "Finished?" is a testament to Bukowski's unwavering commitment to his artistic vision. The poem navigates the treacherous terrain of success, questioning its potential to dilute creativity and compromise authenticity. Ultimately, it's a declaration of artistic independence, asserting that the true measure of a writer lies not in external validation but in the enduring power and honesty of their work. Bukowski implores the reader to ignore the distractions and judge him only by his output, leaving behind a legacy measured in verse, not in social standing.