The Bukowski Lesson

Life can be wildly tragic. I have heard that God is closest to those with broken hearts.  I don't know that I believe that in this moment. Tragedy belongs to the poets and I have been supporting that by feeling compelled to read Dylan Thomas, Paul Celan, and Bukowski every since I heard the terrible news.  Oh Bukowsli.  As I begin to read him, he becomes my old friend all over again.  And I remember that he smiles when he says "motherfucker."  So I sit here through tears and try to smile as I tell Life it is a motherfucker.