"Factotum" by Charles Bukowski is a raw and honest portrayal of the life of Hank Chinaski, loosely based on Bukowski's own experiences as an alcoholic. The book follows Chinaski as he moves from job to job, engaging in heavy drinking, seamy sex, and encountering various challenges in his bohemian lifestyle. Despite the repetitive nature of his experiences, the novel delves into themes of alienation, resilience, and the struggles of a working-class writer.

Bukowski's writing style in "Factotum" is characterized by its directness, simplicity, and unflinching portrayal of life's raunchiness. The protagonist, Henry Chinaski, navigates through a series of odd jobs, drunken escapades, and encounters with women, all while expressing a sense of weariness, anger, and remarkable resilience. Through dark humor, outrageous situations, and a mix of sadness and comedy, Bukowski's novel offers a glimpse into the gritty reality of Chinaski's unconventional lifestyle.

Characters:

The characters are a mix of flawed individuals, centered around Chinaski, whose vices and disillusionment create a tapestry of relationships marked by desperation and dark humor.

Writing/Prose:

The writing style is characterized by its straightforwardness and directness, using humor to highlight serious themes. It is unrefined yet emotional, capturing the essence of the protagonist's struggles and observations.

Plot/Storyline:

The plot revolves around a protagonist navigating a series of dead-end jobs while grappling with the monotony of work and its impact on life. It is told through disconnected vignettes that highlight the absurdity and disconnection inherent in his experiences.

Setting:

The setting is predominantly Los Angeles, showcasing a grim urban atmosphere filled with low-paying jobs and the struggles of the working class.

Pacing:

The pacing is quick and episodic, with short segments that mimic the chaotic and transient nature of the protagonist's life, making it a fast read.

After arriving in Philadelphia I found a roominghouse and paid a week’s rent in advance. The nearest bar was fifty years old. You could smell the odor of urine, shit and vomit of a half century as it ...

Notes:

The term 'factotum' means a jack of all trades, someone doing various types of work.

Henry Chinaski is Bukowski's alter ego, often reflecting Bukowski's own life and struggles.

The book has a theme of burnout and the soul-crushing nature of low-paying jobs.

Chinaski often feels a relaxed attitude at work because he expects to quit or get fired soon.

Bukowski illustrates a disconnect between people through non-linear narrative and vignettes.

The book contains humor amidst themes of alcoholism and casual relationships.

Bukowski uses alcohol and sex as defense mechanisms against life's struggles.

The protagonist, Chinaski, expresses a lack of sync with societal norms and expectations.

Bukowski's characters are flawed but relatable, embodying a sense of struggle and resilience.

Chinaski is described as both a misanthrope and a lonely insightful observer of society.

The writing style is direct and unpretentious, often comparing Bukowski to Hemingway in terms of simplicity.

Even in bleakness, the book suggests hope and a longing for a better future.

Bukowski wrote 'Factotum' over a period of four years, unlike his other works which flowed out more easily.

The novel touches on the futility of working for others and the lack of dignity in certain jobs.

Sensitive Topics/Content Warnings

Content warnings include references to alcoholism, misogyny, sexual content, and existential themes.

From The Publisher:

One of Charles Bukowski's best, this beer-soaked, deliciously degenerate novel follows the wanderings of aspiring writer Henry Chinaski across World War II-era America. Deferred from military service, Chinaski travels from city to city, moving listlessly from one odd job to another, always needing money but never badly enough to keep a job. His day-to-day existence spirals into an endless litany of pathetic whores, sordid rooms, dreary embraces, and drunken brawls, as he makes his bitter, brilliant way from one drink to the next.

Charles Bukowski's posthumous legend continues to grow. Factotum is a masterfully vivid evocation of slow-paced, low-life urbanity and alcoholism, and an excellent introduction to the fictional world of Charles Bukowski.

Ratings (17)

Incredible (1)
Loved It (8)
Liked It (6)
It Was OK (2)

Reader Stats (28):

Read It (17)
Want To Read (10)
Not Interested (1)

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About the Author:

Born in 1920, Charles Bukowski became one of America's best-known writers. During his lifetime he published more than forty-five books of poetry and prose including the novels Post Office (1971), Factotum (1975), Women (1979) and Pulp (1994) all available from Virgin Books.

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Factotum

Charles Bukowski