«Sunlight Coming Down»: The Early Chapbooks of Charles Bukowski

Abstract

While Charles Bukowski’s early chapbooks (1960-1968) were instrumental in turning him into a popular figure in the alternative publishing scene, their relevance in Bukowski’s early career has been largely overlooked. As Basinski accurately noted, it “remains an immense arena to explore.” Chapbooks showcased Bukowski’s best work to date in little magazines, which were the ideal outlet for his ever prolific output. This previously uncharted territory is here illustrated by means of a critical journey through both Bukowski’s published chapbooks and failed projects, highlighting the author/publisher feedback.