“Frankly, I was horrified by life, at what a man had to do simply in order to eat, sleep, and keep himself clothed. So I stayed in bed and drank. When you drank the world was still out there, but for the moment it didn’t have you by the throat.”
Explore This Quote Further
Analysis of Charles Bukowski's Quote on Escapism
In this quote, Charles Bukowski expresses his horror at the mundane and oppressive nature of life, and how he copes with it through drinking. Bukowski describes how drinking allows him a temporary escape from the pressures of daily life, providing a moment of respite from the demands and struggles that come with survival. This quote highlights the theme of escapism and the desire to numb oneself from the harsh realities of existence.
Modern Relevance
Bukowski's words highlight the overwhelming pressure and struggles that many people face in order to survive in today's society. The idea of using substances to temporarily escape from the harsh realities of life is still prevalent, as many individuals turn to alcohol or drugs to cope with the stresses and demands placed upon them. This quote serves as a reminder of the importance of acknowledging and addressing these challenges, rather than numbing oneself to their existence.
Charles Bukowski on the Horrors of Life
"Frankly, I was horrified by life, at what a man had to do simply in order to eat, sleep, and keep himself clothed. So I stayed in bed and drank. When you drank the world was still out there, but for the moment it didn’t have you by the throat.” - Charles Bukowski"
Reflection Questions:
After reading this quote by Charles Bukowski, take a moment to reflect on the following questions:
- How do you interpret Bukowski's perspective on the challenges of daily life?
- Have you ever felt overwhelmed by the demands of society and the need to constantly provide for yourself?
- What coping mechanisms do you employ when you feel trapped or suffocated by the world around you?
- Do you think escapism through substances like alcohol is a valid response to life's difficulties, or do you believe there are healthier ways to navigate hardships?
- How can we support individuals who are struggling with the pressures of existence without resorting to destructive habits like excessive drinking?
Similar quotes
“I couldn't get myself to read the want ads. The thought of sitting in front of a man behind a desk and telling him that I wanted a job, that I was qualified for a job, was too much for me. Frankly, I was horrified by life, at what a man had to do simply in order to eat, sleep, and keep himself clothed. So I stayed in bed and drank. When you drank the world was still out there, but for the moment it didn't have you by the throat.”
“I drank for some time, three or four days. I couldn't get myself to read the want ads. The thought of sitting in front of a man behind a desk and telling him that I wanted a job, that I was qualified for a job, was too much for me. Frankly, I was horrified by life, at what a man had to do simply in order to eat, sleep, and keep himself clothed. So I stayed in bed and drank. When you drank the world was still out there, but for the moment it didn't have you by the throat. ”
“When you drank the world was still out there, but for the moment it didn’t have you by the throat.”
“That was the trouble with being a writer, that was the main trouble—leisure time, excessive leisure time. You had to wait around for the buildup until you could write and while you were waiting you went crazy, and while you were going crazy you drank and the more you drank the crazier you got.”
“The problem was you had to keep choosing between one evil or another, and no matter what you chose, they sliced a little bit more off you, until there was nothing left. At the age of 25 most people were finished. A whole god-damned nation of assholes driving automobiles, eating, having babies, doing everything in the worst way possible, like voting for the presidential candidates who reminded them most of themselves. I had no interests. I had no interest in anything. I had no idea how I was going to escape. At least the others had some taste for life. They seemed to understand something that I didn't understand. Maybe I was lacking. It was possible. I often felt inferior. I just wanted to get away from them. But there was no place to go.”
“In the old days, before I was married, or knew a lot of women, I would just pull down all the shades and go to bed for three or four days. I'd get up to shit. I'd eat a can of beans, go back to bed, just stay there for three or four days. Then I'd put on my clothes and I'd walk outside, and the sunlight was brilliant, and the sounds were great. I felt powerful, like a recharged battery. But you know the first bring-down? The first human face I saw on the sidewalk, I lost half my charge right there.”