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The Cabin at Big Sur

This begins as a haven and sanctuary for Kerouac from the life of drinking and crowding fans that has defined his hometown. Later, it is the setting for parties and Kerouac's recognition of the contrast between his solitude and what he has invited to the place.

The Pacific Ocean

This is the setting for much listening and thinking for Kerouac, and the voice to which he is listening when he writes the poem at the end of the book.

Alcohol

This substance has a powerful hold over Kerouac that even while he is trying to recover from it, and after he recognizes that it is destroying his sanity, he cannot free himself from it.

Kerouac's Earlier Books

Having become the definition of Jack to an abundance of young idealists and aspiring beatniks, these objects are both the reason his life is full of...

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