Poem Analysis - On Going Back To The Street After Viewing An Art Show

Introduction: A Cynical Appreciation

Charles Bukowski's "On Going Back To The Street After Viewing An Art Show" presents a characteristically cynical yet ultimately appreciative perspective on art and humanity. The poem navigates a space between admiration for artistic creation and a stark recognition of human limitations. Its tone is conversational and world-weary, reflecting Bukowski's trademark bluntness. However, beneath the cynicism lies a quiet acknowledgment of the courage required to create in a flawed world. The poem moves from a general reflection on the value of art to a specific assessment of its impact in light of everyday existence.

Art as a Dialogue with the Past and Present

One of the central themes in the poem is the enduring relevance of art. The opening lines, "They talk down through / the centuries to us," establish art as a conversation across time. This suggests that art provides solace and guidance, something "we need more and more" as we navigate life "holding dead hands," a bleak image representing mortality and perhaps the burdens of the past. This dialogue provides a sense of continuity, reminding us that human struggles and aspirations are not new. The art show serves as a reminder of what humanity is capable of, even if the speaker remains somewhat skeptical.

Humanity's Imperfection: A Yardstick for Artistic Achievement

Another prominent theme is the contrast between artistic ambition and human frailty. The speaker acknowledges the art show as "A damn good show," but tempers this praise with the dismissive line "hardly enough for a horse to eat." This colloquial expression diminishes the grandiosity of the art, bringing it down to earth. Stepping "out on the sunshine street," the speaker observes "eyes...dabbled in metazoan faces," an image suggesting humanity's animalistic nature. This observation informs the speaker's reevaluation: "in these centuries / They have done very well / Considering the nature of their / Brothers." The standard isn't perfection, but relative success in the face of inherent limitations. This acceptance and lowered expectations form a key part of Bukowski's worldview.

The Courage to Create: Triumph Over Limitation

The poem also explores the theme of courage in the face of adversity. Bukowski acknowledges that some artists are "Closer really to the field-mouse than / Falcon," which is an evocative image that symbolizes humility, vulnerability, and lack of great power. However, he admires that "some of them...Have been bold enough to try." This quiet admiration for the audacity of artistic creation, despite inherent limitations, is a powerful undercurrent in the poem. The speaker seems to recognize a kinship with these flawed artists, finding value not just in their achievements but in their willingness to attempt something significant.

Images and Symbols: Decoding Bukowski's Visual Language

Several images and symbols contribute to the poem's overall message. The phrase "holding dead hands" is a potent symbol of mortality and the weight of history. The "sunshine street" juxtaposed with the "metazoan faces" creates a stark contrast between the idealized world of art and the gritty reality of everyday life. The comparison of artists to "field-mouse" rather than "Falcon" is a particularly striking image, suggesting humility and vulnerability versus ambition and power. It also poses a question, why did the author use this comparison and not some other animal with different traits?

Conclusion: Finding Value in Imperfect Endeavors

In conclusion, "On Going Back To The Street After Viewing An Art Show" is a characteristic Bukowski poem that finds value in imperfect endeavors. It explores the enduring relevance of art, the contrast between artistic ambition and human frailty, and the courage required to create in a flawed world. Through vivid imagery and a cynical yet appreciative tone, the poem ultimately celebrates the human spirit's ability to strive for something meaningful, even when faced with inherent limitations. The poem's significance lies in its recognition of the importance of effort and creativity, regardless of outcome, within the context of a flawed and often disappointing world.