Jack Kerouac, born Jean-Louis Lebris de Kérouac, was an American novelist and poet known for his spontaneous prose style and association with the Beat Generation. Born on March 12, 1922, in Lowell, Massachusetts, Kerouac’s literary works often explored themes of freedom, spirituality, and the search for meaning in a post-World War II society.

Kerouac rose to prominence with his groundbreaking novel “On the Road” (1957), which epitomized the Beat Generation’s ethos of rebellion against societal norms and conformity. The novel, based on Kerouac’s own experiences traveling across America, captured the restlessness and longing for authenticity felt by many young people of his generation.

Throughout his career, Kerouac penned numerous novels, including “The Dharma Bums” (1958), “Big Sur” (1962), and “Desolation Angels” (1965), each reflecting his unconventional writing style and existential explorations. He also wrote poetry collections like “Mexico City Blues” (1959) and delved into Buddhist philosophy, which heavily influenced his later works.

Kerouac’s writing, characterized by its stream-of-consciousness narrative and raw, unfiltered language, left an indelible mark on American literature, inspiring generations of writers and countercultural movements. Despite facing criticism and struggles with alcoholism later in life, Kerouac’s legacy endures as a testament to the enduring spirit of rebellion and the pursuit of truth in literature. He passed away on October 21, 1969, but his work continues to captivate readers worldwide.