Revolving around themes of alcoholism, gambling, sex, and violence, this short story collection demonstrates Bukowski's compelling semi-autobiographical style and mastery of visceral language and depiction of seamy underworlds. Bukowski's writings have addicted legions of American readers, even though the high literary establishment continues to ignore them. In Europe, however (particularly in Germany, Italy, and France, where he is published by the great publishing houses), Bukowski is critically recognized as one of America's greatest realist writers.