At the End of the Road

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“We had finally found the magic land at the end of the road and we never dreamed the extent of the magic.” Mexico served as an escape, inspiration, and ultimate destination for Jack Kerouac, playing a crucial role in his creative evolution. In this compelling account, Jorge García-Robles, an expert on the Beats in Mexico, explores both the real events and the literary visions that shaped Kerouac’s experiences in this transformative landscape. Mexico provided Kerouac with a spiritual renewal that starkly contrasted with the rigid society of the United States, making it perhaps the most significant country in his life. Drawing from Kerouac’s extensive writings and revealing correspondence, García-Robles illustrates the environment and individuals that influenced him during his visits, detailing the complex dynamics of his arrivals and departures. From Kerouac’s initial excitement upon discovering Mexico's vibrant culture to his tumultuous relationship with a Mexican prostitute who inspired his novella Tristessa, the narrative captures his often romanticized view of the country alongside the harsh realities he faced, including extortion and harassment. By juxtaposing Kerouac’s idealized perceptions with his actual experiences, García-Robles provides a vital Mexican perspective, highlighting the spiritual sustenance Kerouac sought amid his struggles in the U.S.