Tales of Ordinary Madness, (Paperback)

This collection of thirty-four Bukowski stories from the 1960s to 1980s is a tightly edited compilation of profane, hilarious, and gritty tales. Set in the backdrop of Los Angeles, the stories follow characters living in rundown locations, struggling to exist and find meaning in their lives. Bukowski's writing captures the essence of a life filled with drinking, sex, menial jobs, and gambling, portraying a raw and sometimes violent reality. Each story is strong and has the ring of truth, regardless of whether they are based on real events or not. Customer Reception: - One customer expresses their admiration for this book and for the author, praising his ability to transport them to a world of seedy bars and questionable scenarios. They describe it as a breath of fresh air in an increasingly sanitized world. - Another customer describes the stories as both hilarious and revolting, showcasing a surprising sense of humanity in the most unconventional places. They caution readers not to let the stories affect them too much. - There is a divide among customers regarding Bukowski's writing. Some love it for its rawness and truthful depiction of life, while others dislike it, suggesting that those who don't appreciate it prefer to live on the surface. - The collection is described as an eclectic mix of stream-of-Consciousness rants, memoir snippets, and short stories. It delves into themes of gambling, drinking, and sex, often graphically. Some find the writing to be groundbreaking and deeply personal, while others debate its honesty and purpose.