Classic and Contemporary Poetry: Explained

DINOSAURIA, WE, by CHARLES BUKOWSKI Recitation by Author Poet Analysis Poet's Biography

"Dinosauria, We" is a poem by Charles Bukowski, first published in his 1992 collection "The Last Night of the Earth Poems." Bukowski was known for his raw and honest writing style, and "Dinosauria, We" is no exception. The poem speaks to the impermanence of life and the human struggle to find meaning and purpose in the face of mortality.

Explanation:

The poem begins with the speaker describing the majesty and power of the dinosaurs, which ruled the earth for millions of years. The speaker then contrasts the brief and fleeting nature of human life with the enduring legacy of the dinosaurs. The poem goes on to suggest that, despite our mortality, we have the power to create and shape our own destinies.

Bukowski's poem highlights the fragility of human life and our struggle to find meaning and purpose in the face of mortality. The poem's vivid imagery and resigned tone underscore the impermanence of life, while also acknowledging the power of human creativity and ingenuity to shape the world around us.

Poetic Elements:

Form: "Dinosauria, We" is a free verse poem that does not follow a specific rhyme or meter scheme. It is composed of three stanzas, with each stanza consisting of five lines.
Imagery: Bukowski uses vivid and evocative imagery throughout the poem, particularly in the first stanza where he describes the "skeletoned homes" and "cities that shine with the million suns" of the dinosaurs.
Tone: The poem has a somewhat resigned and melancholy tone, acknowledging the impermanence of life while also suggesting that we have the power to make the most of our time on earth.

Conclusion:

"Dinosauria, We" is a powerful and thought-provoking poem that speaks to the human struggle to find meaning and purpose in the face of mortality. Through the use of vivid imagery and a resigned tone, Bukowski captures the impermanence of life, while also suggesting that we have the power to create and shape our own destinies. Ultimately, the poem serves as a reminder of the importance of living life to the fullest and making the most of our time on earth.

Poem Snippet:

"we are born like a

new world is born,

jutting

into the universe,

unknown,

uncalled for,"