How do the drug and homosexual subcultures of the 1950s mix in the novel?

Consider the place of the medical establishment in the novel, particularly in the case of Dr. Benway and Dr. Schafer.

Compare and contrast the various Agents, including Lee and A.J.

How would you categorize the parts of the novel that describe the plot of "real" events versus the parts of the novel that might be visions or hallucinations?

What commentary is being made through the example of Freeland?

How does the book mirror William S. Burroughs' real life experiences, including running from the law, traveling to exotic locations, and becoming involved in underground drug and homosexual cultures?

What effect is given by the graphic descriptions of sex and violence? How would these factors contribute to the initial public reception of the book in the 1950s?