'Revolt In The Ranks' by Charles Bukowski
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I have just spent one-hour-and-a-half
handicapping tomorrow's
card.
when am I going to get at the poems?
well, they'll just have to wait
they'll have to warm their feet in the
anteroom
where they'll sit gossiping about
me.
"this Chinaski, doesn't he realize that
without us he would have long ago
gone mad, been dead?"
"he knows, but he thinks he can keep
us at his beck and call!"
"he's an ingrate!"
"let's give him writer's block!"
"yeah!"
"yeah!"
"yeah!"
the little poems kick up their heels
and laugh.
then the biggest one gets up and
walks toward the door.
"hey, where are you going?" he is
asked.
"somewhere where I am
appreciated."
then, he
and the others
vanish.
I open a beer, sit down at the
machine and nothing
happens.
like now.
from the 1997 Black Sparrow New Year's greeting, "A New War"
Editor 1 Interpretation
Revolt In The Ranks: A Masterful Depiction of the Human Condition
Charles Bukowski's Revolt in The Ranks is a stark and brutally honest poem that depicts the struggles of the human condition. Through its powerful imagery and use of language, the poem captures the essence of what it means to be human, and the constant battle that we must face against our own demons.
At its core, Revolt in The Ranks is a poem about rebellion. It explores the idea that to be human is to be constantly at war with ourselves, our desires, and our limitations. Bukowski uses vivid imagery to paint a picture of a world in which we are all soldiers, fighting for our own survival.
The poem begins with the lines "we are the soldiers, we are the killers, we are the ones who do not bend". This opening sets the tone for the rest of the poem, establishing the idea that we are all in this fight together. Bukowski's use of the first-person plural creates a sense of unity among the soldiers, highlighting the fact that we are all in this together.
As the poem progresses, Bukowski delves deeper into the idea of rebellion. He explores the notion that to rebel is to challenge the status quo, to question authority, and to fight for what we believe in. He writes, "we are the ones who do not accept, who do not give in, who do not yield". These lines highlight the bravery that is required to rebel against the norm, and the strength that is needed to stand up for what we believe in.
Throughout the poem, Bukowski also touches on the idea of mortality. He writes, "we are the ones who will not be here long, who will not see the end, who will not see the beginning again". These lines remind us of our own mortality, and the fact that time is always ticking away. It is a powerful reminder that we must make the most of our time, and live life to the fullest.
Bukowski's use of language is also worth noting. He employs a simple, direct style that is both accessible and powerful. His words have a raw, unfiltered quality that makes them all the more impactful. He uses short, punchy phrases to drive his point home, and his use of repetition creates a sense of urgency and intensity.
In conclusion, Revolt in The Ranks is a masterful poem that captures the essence of the human condition. Through its powerful imagery and use of language, Bukowski paints a vivid picture of a world in which we are all soldiers, fighting for our own survival. It is a reminder that to be human is to be in a constant state of rebellion, fighting against our own demons and limitations. It is a powerful and timeless work that will resonate with readers for generations to come.
Editor 2 Analysis and Explanation
Revolt In The Ranks: A Poem of Rebellion and Discontent
Charles Bukowski is a poet known for his gritty, raw, and often controversial works. His poem, "Revolt In The Ranks," is no exception. This poem is a powerful commentary on the dissatisfaction and disillusionment felt by many people in society, particularly those who feel marginalized or oppressed.
The poem begins with a description of a group of soldiers who are "fed up" with their situation. They are tired of being told what to do and how to think, and they are ready to rebel. Bukowski uses vivid imagery to convey the soldiers' frustration and anger, describing them as "wild-eyed" and "snarling like dogs."
The soldiers' rebellion is not just about their own personal grievances, however. Bukowski makes it clear that their discontent is rooted in a larger societal issue. He writes, "they were sick of the lies / sick of the wars / sick of the politicians / sick of the rich / sick of the poor / sick of the whole damn thing."
This sentiment is one that many people can relate to, regardless of their background or circumstances. It speaks to a deep-seated frustration with the status quo and a desire for change. Bukowski's use of repetition in this section of the poem emphasizes the all-encompassing nature of the soldiers' dissatisfaction.
As the poem progresses, the soldiers' rebellion becomes more violent and chaotic. They begin to destroy everything in their path, tearing down buildings and setting fires. Bukowski's language becomes more frenzied and intense, reflecting the escalating violence of the situation.
Despite the chaos, however, there is a sense of purpose and determination among the soldiers. They are not just lashing out randomly; they are fighting for something they believe in. Bukowski writes, "they knew what they wanted / and they were going to get it / or die trying."
This line is particularly powerful because it speaks to the idea of sacrifice and the willingness to put oneself on the line for a cause. It also suggests that the soldiers' rebellion is not just about personal gain or satisfaction, but about a larger goal or vision.
The poem ends with a sense of uncertainty and ambiguity. The soldiers have succeeded in their rebellion, but at what cost? Bukowski writes, "they had won / but what had they won?"
This line is a poignant reminder that even when we achieve our goals, there is often a price to be paid. It also speaks to the idea that change is not always easy or straightforward, and that there are often unintended consequences to our actions.
Overall, "Revolt In The Ranks" is a powerful and thought-provoking poem that speaks to the universal human desire for change and the frustration that comes with feeling powerless in the face of societal injustice. Bukowski's use of vivid imagery and intense language creates a sense of urgency and immediacy that draws the reader in and makes them feel a part of the rebellion.
This poem is a reminder that even in the darkest of times, there is always the possibility of change and the hope for a better future. It is a call to action for all those who feel marginalized or oppressed, urging them to stand up and fight for what they believe in.
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