Poem Analysis - Its Ours

Introduction: A Moment of Respite

Charles Bukowski's "It's Ours" is a poem about finding solace in the small, seemingly insignificant moments of life. The poem evokes a sense of quiet defiance against the overwhelming forces that threaten to consume us. Its tone is contemplative and subtly rebellious, celebrating the power of momentary escapes. The poem shifts from a descriptive observation of these moments to a declarative statement of their importance.

The Theme of Quiet Resistance

One of the central themes of the poem is resistance, not through grand gestures or overt acts of rebellion, but through the quiet claiming of personal space and time. The "space there / just before they get to us" represents a refuge from external pressures and expectations. This theme is developed through the poem's emphasis on simple actions: "flopping on a bed," "pouring a glass of water," "scratching your neck." These actions are presented not just as routine, but as deliberate acts of reclaiming one's own being. The use of "they" implies a faceless, pervasive force that seeks to encroach upon the individual, making the act of carving out these moments a small but significant victory.

The Significance of the Mundane

The poem also explores the theme of finding value in the mundane. Bukowski elevates the ordinary to the extraordinary by focusing on the simple pleasures of existence. The image of "pouring a glass of water from the / spigot / while entranced by / nothing" is particularly powerful. It suggests that even the most commonplace activities can be sources of profound peace and contentment. The phrase "gentle pure / space" highlights the inherent beauty and value that can be found in these moments of quiet contemplation. By valuing these seemingly insignificant instances, the speaker asserts a sense of control over his own experience and counters the external forces that seek to define it.

The Power of Ephemeral Escape

Another important theme is the idea of ephemeral escape as a form of self-preservation. The poem suggests that even brief moments of detachment can provide the resilience needed to withstand life's challenges. This is conveyed through the recurring phrase "that space / there / before they get to us." It is not a permanent solution, but a temporary reprieve that allows the individual to maintain a sense of self. The final lines, "ensures / that / when they do / they won't / get it all / ever," underscore the idea that these moments of escape provide a crucial defense against total subjugation. By retaining a piece of oneself, one retains a measure of freedom.

Symbolism: The Bare Branch

The image of "a bare branch" is a recurring symbol within the poem. It could represent a stark, unadorned reality, stripped of pretense and artifice. It also suggests a sense of quiet strength and resilience, enduring through harsh conditions. The act of simply "looking out the window at / a bare branch" becomes a moment of connection with something real and unyielding, offering a sense of groundedness and perspective. Perhaps the bareness invites a space for internal reflection, undistracted by the excess of other imagery.

Conclusion: Defiance in Stillness

In conclusion, "It's Ours" is a powerful testament to the enduring human need for personal space and autonomy. Bukowski's poem celebrates the quiet acts of resistance and self-preservation that can be found in the simplest of moments. The poem reveals that the ability to find solace in the mundane is not merely a passive acceptance of fate, but an active assertion of one's own existence in the face of overwhelming pressures. The significance of the poem resides in its ability to recognize and elevate the ordinary, reminding us that even the smallest acts of self-possession can be acts of profound defiance.