Published in June 1963, Mainstream magazine published the answers to a questionnaire from several writers in connection with a “Little Mag” symposium held earlier in the year. Well other writers answered in an academic fashion, Bukowski just let it rip from the heart.
Because he didn’t use carbons at the time, Bukowski’s biggest complaint is manuscripts not being returned, even though he always enclosed return postage. That was part of the overall amateurism of the small press, which also included infrequent publishing, no publishing at all, and a general lack of seriousness within the mimeo movement.
This was one of the few times Bukowski was ever censored for “obsenity,” but it’s obvious that the editors were stodgy, not impressed that Bukowski was drinking when he provided his answers and that he used explicit language.
This is a great historical piece, so I’ve included the full text from the editor intro and Bukowski’s responses.
This copy is in Very Good ++ condition. It’s been well read, there is wear to the covers, and a couple of large (although faint) creases are on the back cover.
A great piece of history from this literary magazine out of New York.
Box 12
