Charles Bukowski (1920-1994) was a German-American poet, novelist and short-story writer. He was born Heinrich Karl Bukowski in Andernach, Germany. His parents had emigrated to the United States and he moved to Los Angeles with them in the early 1930s.
Bukowski's writing often dealt with themes of failure, poverty, loneliness and despair. He was a regular at the bar scene in Los Angeles, and his writing was often peppered with drinking, gambling, and sex. Despite his often dark subject matter, his writing was often humorous and he was well-known for his ability to tell stories with a unique voice.
Bukowski's first book, Post Office, was published in 1971. It was based on his experiences working as a postman, and it was an instant success. This was followed by a series of novels, the most famous of which is his semi-autobiographical work, Factotum (1975). His writing often focused on his own life, and he was famously reluctant to be interviewed about his work.
Bukowski also wrote a number of volumes of poetry, including The Days Run Away Like Wild Horses Over the Hills (1969) and The Roominghouse Madrigals (1988). His poetry won several awards, including the Poetry Society of America's Levinson Prize. He was also the recipient of a Lannan Literary Fellowship and a National Endowment for the Arts grant.
Bukowski's writing was often praised for its originality and realism. He wrote in a direct, straightforward style, and his work was highly influential among writers of the Beat Generation. His work has been translated into more than a dozen languages and has been made into a number of films, television shows, and plays.
Bukowski died in 1994 from leukemia. He left behind a large body of work that continues to be read and enjoyed by fans around the world. He is remembered for his unique voice and his unflinching look at the world. His writing still serves as an inspiration to many aspiring writers and poets.
