Cheryl Hopson, a Professor of English and author of "Zora Neale Hurston: A Critical Life," dives into the remarkable life of Zora Neale Hurston, exploring her literary genius and the impact of her upbringing. She discusses Hurston's struggles and resilience, shedding light on her relationships and significant works like "Their Eyes Were Watching God." The conversation also touches on newly discovered writings by Jack Kerouac, revealing his Buddhist influences and highlighting the interconnectedness of their literary legacies.