The Beat Generation.
I read a few of my classmates thoughts on the beats, and a lot of them said they struggled with it. I had similar problems; however I really did adore their work.I personlly feel as though they made a significant contribution to the formation of a 'free' society. So here is a tribute to ‘The Beats”...
The Beat Generation became synonymous with counterculture, rebellion and bohemian living. The “Beats” vigorously refused to conform to conventional middle class values. The Beat Generation was an artistic movement that questioned authority and traditional values which produced a break within the mainstream culture. They are known for their revolutionary, spontaneous creativity and aggressive individualism. They fashioned a body of written work notorious both for its advocacy of non - traditional values and for its non - conforming style. The Beat Generation comprises of many talented artists such as Jack Kerouac, Allen Ginsberg, Neil Cassidy, and William S. Burroughs.
The Beat Generation phenomenon spread new excitement about art and language as it broke the barriers of American literary traditions. Ironically, what began as a distinct radical association eventually became a prevailing social force. They became subject to allure and emulation due to their unconventional lifestyle, due to this people were influenced to challenge the traditional way of life and started to think beyond the conventional confines of American society.
The “Beats” can be categorised by their writing techniques through their use of open form, conversational diction, imagery, symbolism, political and social evaluation and radicalism in both thought and lifestyle. Their work contains social critique stimulated by what they saw in the 1950’s culture and repressiveness in America. They spoke about political and social events promulgating notions of conformity and convention. Their fresh approach to literature where they expressed their social and political beliefs captivated the American culture as well as developing a strong social stance. The diction they utilised in their writing attracted a large amount of readers as it shapes a deep meaning, exuding a dynamic youthful energy.
Through melodic and influential diction they encouraged a movement and helped shape democracy as we know it today. They conveyed a message of self - expression that should be encouraged and applauded. The Beats created a cultural revolution as people now started to realise it was ok to have an opinion and share it. It focused on the potential of individuals, rather than a group or the country as a whole, which made people think ‘maybe I could change the world’. Giving people stimulus to fight for what they believe in.