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The Very Short Introductions Podcast

The Beats – The Very Short Introductions Podcast – Episode 73

Oct 26, 2023
David Sterritt introduces the Beats, the generation of writers who broke taboos and changed American literature. Topics include the core members of the Beat Generation and their influence, exploring the interests and ideals of a countercultural group, extending the influence through consciousness and language, and views on language and freedom.
15:43

Episode guests

Podcast summary created with Snipd AI

Quick takeaways

  • The Beats challenged societal norms and revolutionized language through their rebellious and transgressive approach to writing and art.
  • Their emphasis on individual consciousness revolutionization paved the way for subsequent protest movements and continues to captivate readers even today.

Deep dives

The Beat Generation: Challenging Conventional Wisdom

The Beat Generation emerged in the late 1950s and early 1960s, challenging conventional wisdom and societal norms. They rebelled against consumerism, materialism, conformity, and regimentation, seeking a new sense of wonder and spirituality in the world. The core members of this movement were Jack Kerouac, Allan Ginsberg, and William S. Burroughs, who combined writing styles that revolutionized language and thought. Their works, such as Kerouac's 'On the Road', Ginsberg's 'Howl', and Burroughs's 'Naked Lunch', captured the imaginations of many and had a lasting impact on literature and culture.

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