Book I, Part II - Desolation in the World: Chapters 58 - 62 Summary

Charley directs Kerouac and Pat to settle into a deserted bunkhouse. Charley asks Kerouac to build a big fire then sets about chopping wood in the half-dark using perfect aim and great strength. Pat goes to the kitchen to re-heat beef stew for dinner. After dinner, Charley retires to his trailer, Pat falls fast asleep, and Kerouac who has insomnia, sits outside to smoke in the Indian summer night.

Kerouac collects his paychecks, pays the food tab at the grocery store, and indulges in an ice cream cone. Sitting in a chair next to the grass, Kerouac tried to read the Seattle Times for baseball scores but the paper is too new and the smell of ink makes him sick.

As Kerouac prepares...