Poem Analysis - What Can We Do

Charles Bukowski's "What Can We Do?" is a stark and cynical commentary on humanity. The poem paints a picture of humankind as a dangerous, almost monstrous entity, capable of both fleeting kindness and profound cruelty. Its tone is largely pessimistic and wary, evolving from an initial acknowledgement of human gentleness to a grim assessment of its inherent flaws. The poem culminates in a desperate, albeit perhaps futile, pursuit of personal liberation from this collective entity.

The Pessimistic View of Humanity

One of the central themes of the poem is the inherently flawed nature of humanity. Bukowski portrays "Humanity" not as a collection of individuals, but as a single, almost sentient being. He describes it as "a mass, a glob that doesn't have too much," suggesting a lack of intelligence or moral compass. The imagery used to depict humanity is particularly potent: "a large animal deep in sleep" that, when awakened, is "best at brutality, selfishness, unjust judgments, murder." This vivid and violent imagery reinforces the idea that humanity, in its collective form, is a force to be feared and avoided. The poem subtly implies that any "gentleness" or "courage" is merely a facade, masking the true potential for destruction that lies beneath.

The Struggle for Individual Escape

Another key theme is the individual's struggle to escape the clutches of this overwhelming "Humanity." The poem presents this escape as incredibly difficult, almost impossible. Bukowski writes, "few escape," highlighting the pervasive influence of societal norms and expectations. The warning to "be careful. it has enacted laws to protect itself from you" suggests that society actively works to suppress individuality and maintain conformity. The constant effort required to even attempt escape is emphasized through the lines: "I have not escaped / but I have not failed in trying again and / again." This persistent struggle forms the core of the poem's exploration of existential freedom.

The Illusion of Greatness and Fame

The poem deconstructs the conventional notions of success and recognition within society. Bukowski states that even "the great and famous" have not escaped, "for they are only great and famous within Humanity." This suggests that worldly achievements are ultimately meaningless, as they are defined and validated by the very entity one is trying to escape. True liberation, according to the poem, lies not in external recognition but in achieving an inner state of being independent of societal approval. Fame, therefore, is just another form of captivity within the system.

Poisonous Imagery and its Significance

The recurring imagery of poison is significant to the poem's overall message. Bukowski advises the reader to "treat it [Humanity] as you would anything poisonous, vicious and mindless." This comparison reinforces the idea that humanity is inherently dangerous and should be handled with extreme caution. The word "poisonous" evokes feelings of fear, distrust, and the need for self-preservation. By associating humanity with poison, Bukowski creates a powerful and visceral image of its destructive potential. What constitutes that "poison," however, remains ambiguous. Is it societal conditioning, the pursuit of power, or simply the inherent flaws of human nature? The poem leaves this open to interpretation.

Final Pursuit of Life

In conclusion, "What Can We Do?" is a bleak and unflinching examination of humanity's potential for both good and evil, ultimately emphasizing its dangers. The poem explores the individual's struggle to break free from the constraints of society and achieve a sense of personal autonomy. While the path to escape is fraught with difficulty and the chances of success are slim, Bukowski's final lines offer a glimmer of hope. The aspiration to "obtain my life" before death, despite the overwhelming odds, speaks to the enduring human desire for freedom and self-discovery. The poem's significance lies in its raw honesty and its willingness to confront the uncomfortable truths about human nature and society.