In the opening story, "The Most Beautiful Woman in Town," Bukowski feels guilty for Cass' suicide. How would you counsel him in his grief?

How does Adolf Hitler figure in this collection of stories? Why do you suppose Bukowski so frequently refers to him?

Given the difficulty of an author's life—often suffering block and getting published with difficulty—why do you suppose Bukowski bothers? What are the positive benefits of writing?

Given the suffering that alcohol brings Bukowski and his friends, why do you think he continues to drink?

How does the jargon of the race track affect your enjoyment of the three stories devoted to racing?

Do you find in Bukowski and his various alter egos any redeeming features? What are the best and worst aspects of his personality?

What do these stories reveal about Bukowski's views on race and...