Precise, powerful words that define true style

Bukowski on capturing the essence of style. The essence of style is difficult to define and even harder to frame it in words, yet Bukowski brilliantly found the perfect phrases capture it. In a world often dominated by fleeting trends and superficial appearances, Bukowski’s words offer a rare glimpse into what true style really means.

Thanks to Mary Portas, we have discovered the following piece by Charles Bukowski, which, she says, sums up her feelings on style. We found it absolutely fantastic, so we decided to share it here—Bukowski’s sharp words truly hit the mark. He masterfully captures its essence, not just through the actions of individuals, but through the way they live, express themselves, and even embrace the rawness of life itself. His unique perspective reminds us that style is more than just aesthetics—it’s a reflection of authenticity and personal expression.

Bukowski on style

“Style is the answer to everything,
A fresh way to approach a dull or dangerous day,
To do a dull thing with style is preferable to doing a dangerous thing without it.
To do a dangerous thing with style, is what I call art.

Bullfighting can be an art.
Boxing can be an art.
Loving can be an art.
Opening a can of sardines can be an art.

Not many have style
Not many can keep style
I have seen dogs with more style than men,
Although not many dogs have style.
Cats have it with abundance.

When Hemingway put his brains to the wall with a shotgun, that was style.
For sometimes people give you style.
Joan of Arc had style.
John the Baptist,
Jesus,
Socrates,
Caesar,
García Lorca.

I have met men in jail with style.
I have met more men in jail with style than men out of jail.
Style is a difference, a way of doing, a way of being done.
Six herons standing quietly in a pool of water, or you, walking
out of the bathroom without seeing me.”

The poem emphasises that style is a unique approach to life, turning ordinary or dangerous actions into something meaningful and artistic. Bukowski suggests that style is not common, but it can be found in unexpected places, whether in animals, historical figures, or even in the way a person carries themselves. It’s about how you do things, the essence of being distinct and authentic. From the mundane to the profound, style makes a difference, and it’s often more present in those who are unconventional or marginalized.

Although capturing the essence of style in words is no easy feat, Bukowski does so brilliantly, encapsulating it in a way that resonates deeply. We absolutely adore this piece! Not only has he gifted us with a true work of art, but it also serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of words in a world overwhelmed by superficial images and fleeting trends.