On the Road

Summary

«On the Road» is a novel by American writer Jack Kerouac, published in 1957. It is one of the seminal works of the Beat Generation and is considered a classic of 20th-century American literature. The novel is based on the author's real-life journey across the United States with his friends in the late 1940s. The main characters, Sal Paradise and Dean Moriarty, embark on a quest for freedom, self-discovery, and the boundless possibilities of America. Throughout their journey, they crisscross the country multiple times, experiencing various adventures, meeting diverse people, and exploring cities and landscapes. The novel is rich with descriptions of jazz music, poetry, and a penchant for alcohol and drugs, reflecting the spirit of the time and the Beat culture. At its core, the book explores themes of friendship, the search for life's meaning, the pursuit of freedom, and spiritual enlightenment. «On the Road» had a profound impact on American culture, inspiring many generations in their quest for their own path and truth.