No holds barred poetry from the undisputed genius of plain speaking. ( )

This is the first volume of Bukowski's poetry I have read and it is also apparently the most popular. That is for good reason I assure you. The poems range from existential if not misanthropic musings like "the crunch" to oddly humorous recollections like "my groupie". Bukowski's no frills, in your face verse about booze, women, and life in LA is showcased quite effectively in these poems. This book sucks you in, chews you up, and spits you out. An indispensable volume. If you've never read Bukowski, pick this up. ( )