One of Charles Bukowski's best books, in which the reader follows the wanderings of aspiring writer Henry Chinaski in World War II America. A drinker and gambler, Chinaski travels from city to city without settling in any job. Wretched prostitutes, miserable rooms, fights, and alcohol in a hypnotic yet humorous descent into the world of the fringe, which was adapted into a film starring Matt Dillon. Bukowski's major themes—the battle of the sexes, the figure of the employer who always lurks invoking the rules, insensitive parents, the demanding landlord—are present in the book. There are the characteristic sex scenes, all interspersed with harsh dialogues, and the sense of detachment from true intimacy. Chinaski, Bukowski's alter ego, is on a constant existential journey, leaving little room for anyone else. from the introduction by poet Neeli Cherkovski in the English edition PRESS WROTE Funny, smart, insightful, and honest. Times Literary Supplement A hilarious chronicle. Dirty realism from the godfather of fringe literature. Uncut