In a momentous display at Bukowski’s final resting place, a two-minute performance titled “Don’t Try” unfolded, drawing inspiration from the eponymous title. Set to the evocative melody of Lhasa de Sela’s “Rising,” the act unraveled as a narrative of personal struggle and resilience.
Amidst the ambiance, the performer’s voice intertwined with the lyrics, encapsulating the poignant essence of facing life’s violent trials. “I got caught in a storm, and carried away” reverberated, symbolizing the tumultuous battles that shape an individual’s journey.
The performance evolved beyond movement, delving into the visceral embodiment of an individual’s inner conflicts. With every fall, the struggle became palpable, a visceral portrayal of adversity. Inversely, every rise showcased an indomitable spirit, refusing to succumb to the brutality of life’s tempests. The lyrics “I got turned, turned around” echoed the chaos that accompanies such trials. “Don’t Try,” borrowed from the marker itself, became a leitmotif embodying resilience in the face of life’s violence. The performance, while not a direct homage, echoed Bukowski’s spirit of confronting challenges head-on. In this rendition, “Don’t Try” served as a mantra for resilience, embracing the title’s essence in a novel context.
The performance unveiled the complexity of human struggle and resilience, albeit indirectly influenced by the titular words. As an artistic exploration, “Don’t Try” highlighted the unyielding strength that emerges from embracing the storm, capturing the spirit of defiance Bukowski himself championed.