Meet New Books
Meet New Books

Books matching: beat generation

70 result(s)

Page 1
Showing 1 - 10 of 70 
  1. #1

    On the Road: the Original Scroll by Jack Kerouac
    Save:

    'On the Road: the Original Scroll' by Jack Kerouac is a revolutionary autobiographical novel following Sal Paradise and Dean Moriarty on a series of frenetic road trips across America and to Mexico in the late 1940s. The book captures the hedonistic and rebellious spirit of the Beat Generation, portraying a group of characters seeking adventure, spiritual transcendence, and a sense of belonging. Kerouac's writing style is described as both thought-provoking and rambling, with some readers praising the book for its wondrous adventure and stunning depiction of the Hipster American lifestyle, while others find the characters self-absorbed and the plot meandering.

    I first met Dean not long after my wife and I split up. I had just gotten over a serious illness that I won’t bother to talk about, except that it had something to do with the miserably weary split-up...

  2. #2

    Minor Characters by Joyce Johnson
    Save:

    'Minor Characters' by Joyce Johnson is a memoir that delves into the author's experience as a young woman involved in the Beat movement of the 1950s. Through her relationship with Jack Kerouac and other key figures, Johnson provides a unique perspective on the Beat Generation, offering insights into the lives of both major and minor characters. The writing style is described as expressive, sensitive, and engaging, bringing to life the struggles and aspirations of the women who were often sidelined in the male-dominated literary circle.

    The book explores themes of love, struggle, and self-discovery, portraying the Beat poets and writers as complex individuals with both strengths and flaws. Johnson's narrative skillfully captures the essence of the era, depicting the challenges faced by women in a society where they were considered secondary to men. Despite the disillusionment and tragedies that unfold, the book offers a poignant portrayal of the characters' journeys and the evolution of their relationships.

    In a 1998 interview Joyce Johnson recounted a story about her early days as a child actor. In 1944 Johnson’s mother, Rosalind Glassman, omnivorously ambitious for her only child, brought Joyce, then e...

  3. #3

    Go by John Clellon Holmes
    Save:

    'Go' by John Clellon Holmes is a novel that delves into the history of the Beat Generation, providing readers with a glimpse into the lives of influential writers such as Jack Kerouac, Allen Ginsberg, and William Burroughs. The book offers a detailed account of the motives and experiences of these young men and women, set in the post-WWII era in America. The writing style varies from cliche to perceptive descriptions, capturing the essence of the Beat generation lifestyle with some judgmental yet charmingly naive moments.

    Holmes, through his alias Paul Hobbes, presents a unique perspective on the Beats, offering a more objective view compared to Kerouac's subjective portrayal in his works like 'On the Road'. The novel paints a portrait of the early days of the Beat Movement, showcasing the birth of something new and exciting in American society and culture during the 1950s. Despite some inconsistencies in the writing, 'Go' provides readers with an insightful and eloquent narrative of the Beat Generation and their unconventional lives.


  4. #4

    Memoirs of a Beatnik by Diane di Prima
    Save:

    'Memoirs of a Beatnik' by Diane di Prima is a memoir that delves into the author's wild and uninhibited sexual escapades during the beatnik era. The book offers a vivid portrayal of her experiences, relationships, and encounters with various individuals, showcasing a carefree and rebellious lifestyle. The writing style is described as explicit, raw, and unapologetic, immersing the reader into the chaotic and sensual beat era of New York City.

    I awoke to the sounds of morning in the West Village. The sounds of traffic. Trucks were going by outside and the pavement was wet. They were nervous, honking and snorting at one another. The window w...

  5. #5

    Beat Generation by Jack Kerouac
    Save:

    'Beat Generation' by Jack Kerouac is a play script that delves into a disjointed conversation over breakfast in Act One, followed by a similar disjointed conversation at a racetrack in Act Two, and a slightly less disjointed conversation about religion and Cowboys in Act Three. The play is described as three acts of stream of consciousness ramblings that may seem to make very little sense to some readers. Despite this, the play reflects a week in Kerouac's life with his friend Neal Cassidy, exploring existential discussions, race tracks, mysticism, and lots of drinking. It presents a statement about real people living and dying the American dream beyond the margins of acceptable culture of the time.

    The play is praised for its honesty, plain hipster talking vignettes, and its relevance in exposing the real working-class America. Readers appreciate how the book captures the essence of the Beat Generation, discussing God and spirituality, and showcasing the strong ties between the beats and spiritual questioning. The characters, including Jack Kerouac, Neal Cassidy, Allen Ginsberg, and Gregory Corso, engage in exuberant banter that is enjoyable to read, making it a recommended read for those discovering Kerouac or for those with a deep affinity for his body of work.


  6. #6

    Naked Lunch by William S. Burroughs
    Save:

    Naked Lunch by William S. Burroughs is a chaotic and fragmented novel that delves into the grotesque world of addiction, society, and human existence. Written in a stream-of-consciousness style reminiscent of Beat poetry, the book offers a dark and surreal commentary on the author's drug-induced experiences and observations. The narrative is plotless and filled with disturbing imagery, exploring themes of individual identity, societal control, and the interpenetration of individuals with society.

    The book is a product of the Beat Generation, challenging traditional writing styles and experimenting with language in a way that mirrors drug-induced states. Burroughs' writing technique is described as visceral and hard, creating a series of metaphorical snapshots rather than a linear narrative. Despite its challenging content, the novel is recognized for its unique and unconventional approach to storytelling, making it a compelling yet unsettling read for those interested in exploring the boundaries of literature.

    I can feel the heat closing in, feel them out there making their moves, setting up their devil doll stool pigeons, crooning over my spoon and dropper I throw away at Washington Square Station, vault a...

  7. #7

    Big Sur by Jack Kerouac
    Save:

    'Big Sur' by Jack Kerouac is a poignant exploration of the author's descent into alcoholism and madness amidst the backdrop of California. The book delves into Kerouac's struggles with fame, addiction, and depression, offering a raw and introspective look at his inner turmoil. Through a stream of consciousness writing style, Kerouac paints a vivid picture of his chaotic life, capturing moments of despair, self-destruction, and fleeting moments of clarity. The narrative follows the protagonist, Jack Duluoz, as he grapples with his demons and attempts to find solace in the serene yet tumultuous environment of Big Sur.

    Kerouac's writing in 'Big Sur' is characterized by its descriptive language, poetic style, and profound insights into the human condition. The book serves as a reflection of the author's struggles and serves as a haunting portrayal of a man on the brink of self-destruction. Through vivid imagery and emotive prose, Kerouac invites readers into his world of turmoil, introspection, and existential crisis, creating a compelling narrative that explores themes of fame, addiction, and the relentless pursuit of meaning in life.

    “ONE FAST MOVE OR I’M GONE” so I blow $8 on a cab to drive me down that coast, it’s a foggy night tho sometimes you can see stars in the sky to the right where the sea is, tho you cant see the sea you...

  8. #8

    The Dharma Bums by Jack Kerouac
    Save:

    In "The Dharma Bums" by Jack Kerouac, the novel follows the protagonist Ray Smith and his friend Japhy on a journey exploring Zen Buddhism and the search for meaning across America. The story shifts between city life, drunken parties, and Buddhist rituals to moments of serenity in the outdoors and nature. Through Kerouac's frantic narrative style, the book delves into themes of friendship, inner peace, and the quest for truth while showcasing the influence of Zen Buddhism on the characters' lives.

    Kerouac's writing style in "The Dharma Bums" combines elements of beat poetry with a meandering yet reflective narrative that captures the essence of the Beat Generation. The book explores themes of asceticism, nature, and the tension between spiritual enlightenment and the desire for freedom. Through Ray Smith's encounters with Japhy and their travels across different landscapes, Kerouac presents a blend of philosophical musings, vivid descriptions, and introspective moments that invite readers to ponder on the deeper meanings of life and self-discovery.

    When Gary Snyder, the Zen poet immortalized as “Japhy Ryder” in The Dharma Bums, first met Jack Kerouac in San Francisco in the fall of 1955, he sensed about him “a palpable aura of fame and death.” S...

  9. #9

    Howl and Other Poems by Allen Ginsberg
    Save:

    'Howl and Other Poems' by Allen Ginsberg is a collection of poems that captures the essence of the Beat generation in the 1950s and 60s. The book delves into themes of rebellion, societal critique, and raw emotion, with a particular focus on the struggles and experiences of the youth during that era. Ginsberg's writing style is described as intense, raw, and passionate, drawing readers into a world of chaotic beauty and unfiltered truths.

    The book is known for its iconic opening poem, 'Howl,' which has been hailed as a masterpiece of 20th-century poetry. Through vivid imagery and powerful language, Ginsberg paints a picture of a generation grappling with madness, societal pressures, and the search for meaning in a changing world. The collection also includes other poems that showcase Ginsberg's unique voice and his ability to capture the spirit of his time with honesty and depth.

    Peyote solidities of halls, backyard green tree cemetery dawns, wine drunkenness over the rooftops, storefront boroughs of teahead joyride neon blinking traffic light, sun and moon and tree vibrations...

  10. #10

    Fear and Loathing in Las Vegas - Fear and Loathing by Hunter S. Thompson
    Save:

    Fear and Loathing in Las Vegas by Hunter S. Thompson is a wild journey into the heart of the American dream amidst madness and drug-induced experiences. The book follows the protagonist and his lawyer as they embark on a drug-fueled trip to Las Vegas, encountering bizarre scenarios and exploring themes of counterculture, drug abuse, and randomness. The writing style is described as manic, chaotic, and filled with rapid-fire hilarious scenes that keep the reader engaged and entertained.

    The New York office was not familiar with the Vincent Black Shadow: they referred me to the Los Angeles bureau—which is actually in Beverly Hills just a few long blocks from the Polo Lounge—but when I...

Page 1 of 7Next Page