I had always heard of this book as being regarded highly and thought I was someone who enjoyed “stream of consciousness” writing…. But I could just not get through this, it felt like a total slog.
The general premise of being on the road and exploring is very interesting and I was drawn in quickly but it just felt like the book never really evolved from there.
Sal and his friends are just always off seeking another adventure. For the most part they’re kind of just sleazy guys trying to skirt responsibility. Which I think is the point? That the “on the road” lifestyle is hedonistic fun but fleeting and also damaging to your morality?
The general themes and premise were interesting but after 200 pages of Kerouac describing parties and sweating and cars, it just started to turn into a slog where it felt like everything was being beat over your head over and over again.
by ttam80
1 Comment
It was before cannabis was mainstream so there’s that.