Section 37 through Section 39 Summary and Analysis

Section 37 starts on page 180 with "Miriam and I had the little shack in the center...." Bukowski begins by discussing his relationship with Miriam, his girlfriend at the time. The two are living somewhat comfortably, and are happy together, but Bukowski knows it will not last. She is working, while he is doing the housework and betting at the track. However a stripper next door named Renie soon offers to show him her dancing in her bedroom, and he follows. After several drinks, Renie tells him she is an artist in her dancing, and wants him to critique her. Several days later, a heavy woman from next door come to borrow sugar, and the two make love. Miriam finds out, and tells him to leave. He notes that he never made love to Renie, as it would have...