Poem Analysis - Trollius And Trellises

Overall Impression: Acceptance and Apprehension

Charles Bukowski's "Trollius and Trellises" is a candid and characteristically cynical exploration of aging, artistic legacy, and the anxieties surrounding change. The poem begins with a stoic acceptance of mortality, but quickly shifts to a concern over the future of his work and the potential loss of his long-time editor. The tone is a blend of resignation, humor, and a deep-seated fear of being misunderstood or creatively stifled. The overall mood is one of reflective unease, punctuated by flashes of sardonic wit.

The Enduring Power of Partnership

One of the central themes of the poem is the importance of artistic partnership and the fear of losing it. Bukowski emphasizes the "unholy alliance" he forged with his editor-publisher 25 years prior, highlighting the mutual benefit and shared struggle they experienced. The phrase suggests a bond built not on conventional business relationships but on a shared understanding and perhaps a rebellious spirit against the established literary world. The anxiety surrounding the editor's potential retirement stems not only from practical concerns about finding a new publisher but also from the loss of a trusted confidant and someone who understands his unique voice.

Mortality vs. Legacy: The Poet's Dilemma

The poem juxtaposes the inevitability of death with the desire to leave a lasting artistic legacy. Bukowski's initial declaration of readiness for death contrasts sharply with his subsequent worries about the fate of his work. The mention of "Trollius and trellis" symbolizes a peaceful, conventional retirement – a life far removed from the gritty, often chaotic world of writing and publishing. This imagery suggests that the editor may choose comfort and beauty over the demanding and sometimes thankless task of nurturing artistic talent. The concern isn't just about finding a new publisher, but about finding someone who will truly understand and champion his work, ensuring its longevity.

Symbols of Artistic Corruption and Control

Several symbolic images highlight Bukowski's anxieties about the potential corruption of his work after his editor's departure. The "fellow in the Russian fur hat" and the "beast in the East" represent potential new publishers who may prioritize commercial success over artistic integrity. The most potent symbol of this fear is the Shipping Clerk who might "rise like Lazarus," empowered to impose arbitrary and stifling rules, such as demanding submissions in "Rondo form" typed "triple-spaced on rice paper." This absurd image embodies the artist's nightmare of having his creative vision dictated by someone who lacks understanding and appreciation for his work. The "thirties" also becomes a symbol of the value of hard work and resilience in the face of financial limitations - something Bukowski fears new gatekeepers will lack understanding of.

Manure and Meaning: Cultivating Life and Art

The poem concludes with a return to the initial sentiment of acceptance, but now colored with a newfound understanding. Bukowski imparts a final piece of advice to his editor, comparing the process of writing to gardening: "use plenty of manure." This earthy metaphor suggests that both life and art require a willingness to embrace the messy, unpleasant aspects of existence. He acknowledges the important role his editor played in locating him "somewhere between alcoholism and madness," implying that their partnership allowed him to channel his personal struggles into creative output. Ultimately, "Trollius and Trellises" is a poignant reflection on aging, the value of artistic collaboration, and the enduring power of art to find meaning in the face of uncertainty.