Poem Analysis - Having The Flu And With Nothing Else To Do

Introduction: A Cynical Observation

Charles Bukowski’s "Having The Flu And With Nothing Else To Do" is a sardonic reflection on political and personal evolution, or rather, the perceived lack thereof. The poem, written in a casual, conversational tone, expresses a deep-seated cynicism regarding ideological transformations, especially the perceived betrayal of radical ideals. It begins with a specific example and broadens into a sweeping indictment of societal expectations. The poem's mood, initially contemplative, escalates into a dismissive and angry outburst.

The Allure and Betrayal of Ideals

One of the central themes is the corrosive nature of compromise. The poem explores how youthful idealism can wither into comfortable conformity. Bukowski uses John Dos Passos as a prime example: a former radical reduced to a Hollywood Hills resident, content with investments and the *Wall Street Journal*. This transformation highlights the perceived selling-out of ideals for material comfort. The poem implies that such transitions are common, suggesting a societal pressure that rewards conformity and punishes unwavering commitment to radicalism.

The Dichotomy of Ideological Adherence

Another key theme is the double standard applied to political transformations. Bukowski contrasts the acceptable (even expected) shift from young radical to old conservative with the condemnation faced by those who remain radical throughout their lives. The poem points out that while a conservative youth growing into a conservative elder is seen as natural, a radical youth aging into a radical elder is often perceived as mentally unstable. This disparity reveals a bias towards maintaining the status quo and a suspicion of persistent dissent.

Symbolism and Outright Rejection

The *Wall Street Journal* functions as a potent symbol of capitalist conformity. Its presence in Dos Passos’s life underscores the perceived abandonment of radical ideals for the embrace of economic stability. The poem’s concluding lines, a crude rejection of politics ("Sail it up your Ass"), serve as a visceral expression of Bukowski's disillusionment. This outright rejection is not just of politics, but also of the compromises and hypocrisies he sees embedded within it. He is effectively washing his hands of a system he finds inherently corrupting.

Concluding Thoughts: A Bitter Pill of Truth

In conclusion, "Having The Flu And With Nothing Else To Do" is a bitter meditation on the perceived corruption of ideals and the societal pressures that encourage conformity. Through the example of John Dos Passos and the contrasting fates of aging radicals and conservatives, Bukowski paints a cynical portrait of political and personal evolution. The poem’s strength lies in its raw honesty and its willingness to confront the uncomfortable truths about how society often rewards those who abandon their radical roots while simultaneously demonizing those who remain steadfast. The poem ultimately suggests that true conviction, while admirable, is often punished, leading to a profound sense of disillusionment and a final, angry rejection of the political landscape.