best bukowski novel to start with

'Factotum' is also a good one to begin with. It follows the life of Henry Chinaski, a character often based on Bukowski himself. The story is filled with his typical themes of alcohol, women, and the struggle to get by. It's relatively easy to follow compared to some of his other works and really shows what Bukowski is all about.

I think 'The Most Beautiful Woman in Town and Other Stories' is a great start. These short stories are concise yet powerful. They showcase Bukowski's ability to create vivid characters and situations in just a few pages. It gives you a taste of his unique voice without being too overwhelming.

In my opinion, 'Factotum' is a top - notch Bukowski novel. It follows the protagonist's various odd jobs and his rather bohemian lifestyle. The way Bukowski portrays the down - and - out existence yet still manages to find beauty and meaning in the small things is really remarkable.

In my opinion, 'Factotum' could be seen as his best novel. It follows the protagonist's various odd jobs and his rather aimless, yet strangely alluring, lifestyle. Bukowski's writing in this novel really captures the essence of a down - and - out existence in a vivid and engaging way.

The exploration of themes like alienation and the search for meaning can make a Bukowski novel great. In 'Women', he explores his relationships with women in a way that also touches on his own sense of self and his place in the world. His novels are not just about relationships but also about the human condition.

It's a matter of personal taste, but many consider 'Post Office' to be one of Bukowski's best.

You could start with 'Factotum'. It's a great introduction to Bukowski's world of odd jobs, alcohol, and relationships. The protagonist's journey through different jobs while dealing with his personal demons is both relatable and fascinating. It shows how Bukowski could take the ordinary and make it seem extraordinary in his own way. Plus, it gives you a taste of his unique voice, which is a mix of cynicism, humor, and a kind of resigned acceptance of life's hardships.

Well, 'Women' is also considered among the best. It delves into his relationships with women in his typically unvarnished style. He doesn't hold back in his descriptions and it gives a very personal view into that aspect of his life. And then there's 'Ham on Rye', which is a semi - autobiographical novel that takes readers through his childhood and youth, showing how his early experiences shaped him.

For many, 'Ham on Rye' stands out as Charles Bukowski's best novel. It offers a raw and gritty look at his life and experiences.

Definitely 'Post Office'. It's a classic. It shows his daily struggles and his way of dealing with the mundanity of a postal job in a very engaging way.