Hi Everyone!
In your opinion, what is the function of the chapters you read? What literary devices did you notice while reading?
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-Chapter 4- Development of the Transition from east to west
-Chapter 5- Development of Montana Slim
-Chapter 6- Development of Chad King
-Chapter 7- Introduce the Rawlinses and Rowland Major; develop Carlo Marx and Dean Moriarty
-Chapter 8- Show/develop intimacies of the relationship between Sal, Carlo, and Dean
-There were tons of similes,personificatons, and imagery regarding personalities and traits, which shows how far Kerouac developed his characters
-in Ch. 8, there was also a good deal of simile use from Carlo's poem
I think that the function of the chapters i read are to mainly further advance the plot and develop characters... He further explains Sa's Journey to denver and we also learn more about Dean's ability to take the most out of life when he has his affairs with both Camile and Marylou. He also introduces new characters such as Montana Slim, Mississippi Gene, Rawlinses, Rowland, Chad king, as well as develop them as characters, and show growing relationships like that of sal, carlo marx, and dean.
The literary devices i noticed in the reading were mainly similes.
In Chapter 4, the function was to introduce and develop new characters, the other hitch-hikers in the truck. Also, it further developed Sal by displaying how he interpreted and interacted with the others. In Chapter 5, the function was to develop Montana Slim and Sal through their actions in Cheyenne. Especially since they were drunk, it portrayed their true thoughts. In Chapter 6, the function was to introduce another new character, Chad King, and a new conflict, the social division within their gang. Although I agree with Charlie that in Chapter 7, the Rawlinses and Rowland Major were introduced and Carlo Marx and Dean Moriarty were developed, I felt that is main function was transition. It finally brought the gang back together and explained what Carlo and Dean had been doing to the reader. In Chapter 8, the function was to develop all of the characters by revealing each person's reason for coming together. Also, different views, especially on the marathon discussion, depicted the different mindsets and personalities of the characters.
One of the most profound literary devices was imagery. Instead of using sophisticated words, however, he described scenes and characters in a way that the reader could understand and actually picture it. There were also many similes. Furthermore, the syntax provided insight into the story. Using long, flowing sentences, Kerouac displays the ongoing transition and journey of self-discovery.
ch. 4 showed how the road can connect people like when Sal finds out that Gene knows a friend of his. I didn't really think anything important happened in ch. 5 other than Sal learning that there's more to Montana Slim than he thought. chapters 6-8 were probably the most important b/c Sal finally establishes himself in the West and Carlo and Dean tell Sal about the conversations that they have which show first thought, best thought. All the chapters have a lot of imagery in them especially when Sal describes the sky and the stars and also in Carlo's poem.
Chapter 4's major function was to develop new characters and establish theme. In this chapter, Sal hitch-hikes with several other boys, and he calls it "the greatest ride of his life." I think this chapter explains Sal's longing to meet new people and have new experiences, and to discover the people of the West.
Chapter 5's function was to develop Sal's relationship with Montana Slim. We learn that Montana Slim is two-sided, and not all people are as static as Sal thought them to be.
In chapter 6, we learn about Chad King. A major function of this chapter is to develop the plot, because we see the beginning of a conflict between Chad King and Dean. Sal is stuck in the middle of this "war."
Chapter 7 develops the plot and also establishes theme. Sal moves in to his apartment with Roland Major, and he finally gets in touch with Carlo Marx and Dean. The concept of time is introduced; Dean is constantly rushing and scheduling his days in order to live life to the fullest.
In chapter 8, the characters and plot are developed when we see one of Dean & Carlo's all-night talk sessions.
While reading, I noticed some personification, but more imagery. Kerouac used a lot of imagery when he described what the different places and states he visited looked like. However, because of the spontaneous tone that he wrote in, there were not a lot of literary devices.
Chapter 4 developes the plot, the journey on the road, and transitions into the west.
Chapter 5 developes the new setting, the west.
Chapter 6 shows the divide between Sal's friends. Chad king, Tim Gray and Roland Major vs Dean Moriarty and Carlo Marx, and then Sal in the middle.
Chapter 6 transitions into to the emergence of Dean again in Sal's life
Chapter 8 developes Dean's character more, it talks about his father, and developes the relationship beween Carlo and Dean, Sal talks about their discussion sessions.
There are many similes, there are author asides, where Keoac inserted extra information into parenthesees, and there are metaphors.
In chapter 4, Kerouac characterizes the other hitch hikers on the truck with Sal - especially Slim who has many names... one ironically Big Slim [paradoxical]. He mainly develops the characters through dialogue, but he also uses some description.
This chapter simultaneously continues the journey motif.
In chapter 5, Slim is further developed before he disappears probably on his way to Montana, as the plot is also further developed.
The theme of American hunger and desire for more is exemplified in this chapter. The pretty blond girl is presistent on going to NY, Slim is set on Montana,and Sal can hardly stop thinking about Denver.
An other possible theme is family/companionship which is demonstrated by Sal's friendship and need for Dean, then his close bond with Slim and his desire to be with his "clan" in Denver.
Chapter 6's function is primarily development of Chad King as it describes him in great detail and his family.
In chapter 7 the journey progresses, as does the companionship theme as Roland Major is developed.
In chapter 8 Eddie is characterized. Also, the dynamics of Dean Sal and Carlo are developed - which relates to the running theme of dependence and companionship especially since Sal is divorced and Dean affirms his divorce with Marylou and announces engagement to Camille for which he plans to leave again.
Lastly, in this chapter, Sal says, "'the last thing is what you cant get, Carlo. Nobody can get to that last thing. We keep on linving in hopes of catching it once on for all'" (48) which could illustrate a theme of perseverence in Americans and hopefulness and striving for the absolute best possible life.
I noticed imagery , for instance, when he describes the other hitch hikers - he writes about their smiles and clothing. Also, he includes detailed description of the road - the humps, shoulders and ditches. Also, Kerouac does occasionally use a simile ie "the shoes were pretty ragged by now, the bits of colored leather sticking up like pieces of a fresh pineapple and my toes showing through" (27).
Chapter 4- development of the transition from east to west, and introduces new characters
Chapter 5-develops Montana Slim, and his relationship with Sal
Chapter 6-develops Chad King as he starts separating himself from Carlo Marx and Dean
Chapter 7-develops the plot as Sal moves into the apartment with Roland Major. The chapter also introduces the Rawlinses, and develops Carlo Marx and Dean
Chapter 8- development of Carlo Marx and Deans relationship. Sal talks about one of Dean and Carlo's all night discussions. Dean tells Carlo that he wants to divorce Marylou and move to San Francisco with Camille
Kerouac uses a lot of imagery when Sal is describing the different places that he visits. There are also similies in Carlos poem
There is repetation and simlies in his writing. (Ex of repetation is that every cat that goes fast seems to go 70) (Ex of simlie is on page 26 when Sal compares the hobo to a drug addict from NY)
The majority of the chapters are used to develop plot and characters. (Ch 4 - develops many different secondary characters. Ch 5 - all about montana slim. Ch 6- describes how there are now problems within Sal's group of friends)
Chapter 4-
He is adjusting to the new lifestyle of the West and he begins to connect with Dean a little more which shows the function of developing new characters
Chapter 5-
It is developing characters again when they introduce Montana Slim into the story and then he leaves by the end of the chapter. I thought most of this chapter was insignificant.
Chapter 6-
This chapter introduces the idea of developing characters along with introducing conflict of a war, one side, Chad King, Tim Gray, and Roland Major against Dean Moriarty and Carlo Marx. Sal remains confused not knowing which side to favor.
Chapter 7-
Sal realizes the relation between Dean and Carlo and is curious when their heart to heart will occur. Also, he is introduced to live every moment according to Dean since he is always on the move and rushing.
Chapter 8-
Dean and Carlo have their talk and Sal witnesses how crazy they are throughout it.
Imagery, similes and personification are used. An example of personification is “the air was soft” pg 42
In Chapter 4, the function is to advance the plot certainly, as Sal continues traveling west, as well as changing the setting to a more sandy environment. New characters are introduced.
In Chapter 5, a bit more about Slim is revealed, such as his relationship with his father. Sal gets closer to Denver, and he is compared to the "Prophet."
Chapter 6 advances character development, such as the description of Chad King early in the chapter, and more of Dean's childhood revealed, such as his father's alcoholism and his "bad boy" lifestyle.
In Chapter 7, there is more character development, such as with Roland Major, Tim Gray, and some of the rest of their gang. Activities that Dean and Carlo have been in are revealed. Some plot advancement is shown, particularly with the planning of the next few days by Dean for Sal. A simile is used at the end of the chapter, "...I slept like a log." This lifestyle really tires Sal out.
In Chapter 8, plot is further developed. After a quick morning and a party at night, Dean plans to move to San Francisco after divorcing Marylou and marrying Camille. Carlo's basement is compared to that of a Russian saint, to emphasize its simplicity. There is some character development as Sal witnesses the weird relationship between Dean and Carlo in one of their late night discussions, noted as "the machine."
Chapter 4:
The function of chapter four is to further develop the plot and introduce new secondary characters.
Chapter 5:
The purpose of chapter five is to further develop the main themes of the book, especially the theme of lack of satisfaction. This is displayed in his conversation one of the girls who he picks up. She desperately want to go to New York, while he only wants to go further west.
Chapter 6:
The function of chapter six is the development of Dean's character and his past. It also establishes the theme of the "American Dream", by introducing it through the character of Chad's father.
Chapter 7:
The function of chapter seven is for the purpose of transitioning into Sal's new life in Denver. Sal learns of the new attributes developed by each character in Denver, especially Dean.
Chapter 8:
The purpose of chapter eight is to develop the theme of the "beat generation", displayed by Dean and Carlo's night-long talk. This chapter also develops Sal's character, displaying his immense infatuation with Dean and these conversations as a whole.
Although I did not read these chapters looking for literary devices, I realized that metaphors were used extensively, especially in portraying the conversation between Dean and Carlo as an unstoppable machine.
chapter 4- function was to further advance the plot because we start to learn more about his journey (where he is coming from and where he wants to go). The function is also for introducing characters because we learn about very diverse characters that he meets on one of his many hitch hiking experiences.
Chapter 5- The function of this chapter is to briefly develop the character of Montana Slim.
Chapter 6- Sal gets to Denver and we learn more about his friend Chad King. we also learn more about his old friends and how they are sort of divided. Sal feels stuck in the middle.
Chapter 7- Learn more about Sal's "gang". It seems like Tom Gray, Rawlins, and Major Rowland were on a side and then there was Dean and Carlo on the other side of the gang.
Chapter 8- Function of this chapter is to further develop Eddie, the man Sal met on his journey to Denver. We learn more about the gang and some of the experiences that Sal has with them during his visit to Denver.
Literary Devices:
Kerouac uses multiple similes, when he is developing characters he doesn't come straight out and say what they are like he has them say something or do something to show what they are like. He also uses symbolism a few times. For example he says that Eddie is the symbol for the spirit of the west.
Chapter 4 advances the plot of the story for a few reasons. First, by the virtue of the fact that he is continuing his journey, therefore makes it that he is moving the plot along. Second, it develops the plot more because it is showing the reader the people that he meets at each point in his journey. In this chapter, it is talking about his journey from Iowa to Wyoming, indicating an advancement in plot. If he was still in Iowa at this point then it would be something different for the function of the chapter, however, he is in Wyoming, so that is not the case.
Chapter 5 could be one of two things; it could be a transition chapter, or character development chapter. It could be a transition because all he is doing it going from Wyoming to Colorado, plus nothing really important happens besides his moving of states. It could be character development because Sal changes his views on Montana Slim: "It gave me a different idea of him; how tenderly polite he was with his father"(33). His depiction of Montana Slim changes in this chapter, so it could be considered character development.
Chapter 6 develops character because we get to learn about the events of the "gang" that Sal missed out on. Essentially the reader learns that the "gang" split up, and that Chad King no longer affiliates himself with members of the gang.
Chapter 7 develops character because the reader learns about new characters and updated personalities of old characters. For example, the reader is introduced to Roland Major, Carlo Marx, and also the new personality of Dean.
Chapter 8 advances the plot because we learn of the new lifestyle of Sal. He gets a job, but decides not to go because he would rather sleep. In addition, he gets invited to a party, which could possibly help advance the plot. In addition, the reader discovers that everyone is up at all hours of the day, as if no one really sleeps.
A major literary device used throughout the chapters was simile. Almost anywhere you go, you will be able to find a simile. Jack Kerouac uses similes sparingly: "I felt like an arrow that could shoot out all of the way"(25), "the bits of colored leather sticking up like pieces of a fresh pineapple"(27), "fit and slick as a fiddle"(35), and "I slept like a log"(45). As you can see, similes were a major part of Kerouac's writing of this section of reading.
Chapter 4 acts as a section to develop the plot and to develop a sense of flow in the novel, as well as a large element of character development, discussing Sal's lifestyle as he ventures west. It also introduces Montana Slim, who may play an important role.
Chapter 5 continues on with character development, but this time of Montana Slim, who leaves later, possibly showing the come-and-go lifestyle in the West...and in more detail, the unexpected trials of adulthood.
Chapter 6 describes Sal's arrival in Denver, and his encounters with Carlo Marx and the other guys' war. He refers to it as "a war with social overtones" (37), which could relate to the fierce social structure of America. In general, however, I think the chapter was a character and a plot developer.
Chapter 7 incorporates character development, including Sal's move to Rowland Major's house, and a further development of Dean's private life with different girls, representing the instability of the West, which excites Sal.
Chapter 8 brings out an underlying theme of the novel, which could be the unity of different American cultures, that being of the tightly strung relationship between Sal, from New York, Dean, from Denver, and Carlo, from the Midwest. It also develops Eddie, of whom I don't know much about at all, really.
As far as literary devices are concerned, there was a lot of imagery. Almost every line put a picture in my head of what it was like to be riding on a large open country road in the west, especially when Sal describes the piscalls he would take on the road.
There were also a lot of similes, especially in chapter 6 and personification, cited on page 47 when Kerouac describes the "vulgar pigeons" and "sad nightingales."
These 5 chapters develop the plot because Sal finally makes it to Denver and meets up with Chad King, Rowland Major, and then Carlo Marx and Dean. In chapter six a conflict between Chad King,, Tim Gray, Roland Major, and the Rawlinses and Dean and Carlo is introduced but it is unclear whether this will become very relevant. These chapters develop character because not only does Sal meet Mississippi Gene, Montana Slim, and the other boys in the car, through his encounters with the people he is currently with you learn a lot about their character. In terms of literary devices, he uses a lot of imagery and similes. He uses imagery when describing all the people he meets in getting to Denver and then continues to use it when talking about the people he is familiar with. He includes similes throughout but specifically he ends chapter four and seven with similes. At the end of four he says. "...staring at the town like babes from a coverlet" and at the end of seven it says,"..and I slept like a log".
From what we talked about in the class, the function of chapters 1-3 is to establish and develop characters, to introduce major themes, to introduce/launch the roadtrip, and to further advance plot. In chapters 4-8, I found that the functions include further development of plot and character, introduction of conflicts, and ongoing development of theme. In addition, along with the ongoing development of theme, there is evidently the ongoing changes in setting.
Some literary devices that I found include jargon, flashback, allusion, simile,and metaphor.
Chapters 4-8 do much to advance the plot and establish/elaborate on characters and themes as Paradise continues on his journey. Specifically, Chapter 4 introduces a whole slew of characters like Mississippi Gene and Montana Slim. Chapter 4 also reinforces the profound divide between West and East in the United States. Chapter 5 develops Montana Slim – though he quickly disappears - as Paradise spends the night with him drinking. Chapter 6 develops Chad King and introduces the split in Sal’s gang. In Chapter 7, Rowland Major and the Rawlinses are introduced. Dean, (it is explained how he is sleeping with two girls at once), Carlo Marx, and the relationship between the two are also developed. The relationship between Dean, Sal, and Carlo is developed in Chapter 8. Eddie is also introduced.
Each chapter has uses a few literary devices to perform these functions – I don’t believe the book on the whole has many of them simply because of how quickly it was written. Most obviously, In Chapter 8, Carlo personifies pigeons and nightingales as “vulgar” and “sad” respectively. He describes the Rockies in a metaphor as “papier-mache”. He alludes to Greek mythology when he describes “Oedipus Eddie”. Dean was a “child of the rainbow”.
Chapter 4 would probably be a development of character. Though Charlie is right in saying that it is a transition, it is much more than that. The author begins to see the West in its entirety. He sees the West as a place of freedom and Justice, which will later be contradicted by the inhabitants of the West. Sal's emotions are building up, ready to explode at any second due to excitement.
Chapter 5 begins to show a decrease there by showing other characters like that thin girl, who argued that there was no beauty in the West (prairie flowers) and that she desired to go to New York, where Sal had started off. This would be the real development on character since it shows how ignorant Sal is when he ignores the girl altogether and continues to daydream.
Chaper 6 is a development in side characters like Chad King and Dean. It also shows a growth in conflict with the last line the chapter "Where was Dean?"
Chapter 7 shows a growth in Dean's character. Dean is probably looking for an excuse to act foolish as he searches for a true self and what it is he actually wants. It also shows the link between Dean and Sal. It introduces Dean with a new girlfriend.
Chapter 8 is a growth in conflict in the book.
Throughout all the chapters, there seems to be some link to stuffing oneself with food and the characters. Sal seems more restrained while the others just stuff themselves and take what they will. Also, all the characters in the book so far have been shown to be spendthrifts or hobos. This is an odd way to show America and the concept of freedom, so there is probably a theme behind that coverup. Its odd how Major, who lives in a shabby apartment, buy good wine and even toured France once while Sal is willing to waste all of his money on cigarettes and drinks for people whom are strangers to him. This probably shows that the old America is deteriorating and that Kerouac is trying to bring back that old America through that book and prevent the birth of this new America that is much more greedy.
Chap 4: to introduce characters
Lit. Devices: "The greatest ride in my life..." (p 22)- foreshadowing.
"...grim as Job." (p 29)- allusion to biblical text maybe?
Chap 5: to establish setting, maybe?
"...like the Prophet..." (p 35)- allusion to biblical text.
Chap 6: to add more to the characters, especially Dean, and to introduce Chad.
Chap 7: to advance the plot, to introduce characters.
Chap 8: to elaborate on the characters as individuals through conflict.
The chapters trade between developing and/or introducing characters, especially in chapters 4 and 6, the plot moving-along with the setting (yay denver)- in chapter 5, and development of the new characters in 6-7, showing distinct groups of friends (For example, when Rland blocks the entrance to Tm's apartment). IN chapter 8, along with the similes, we saw the strange talk session between the "amazing maniacs."
WEll since i am unsure about whether or not the blogging topic has changed at all, i am gonig to post back just in case,,,,,...
THe recent chapters (8-11)were all about developing conflicts. Also, a new theme is emerginging which is that it is only good to follow your heart for a certain amount of time. After that point, it a person's heart gets tooo confused and does not know what it actually wants. A literary device that is used is the use of a pun. For example, everytime a character mentions paradise, they could be talking abotu sal or actual paradise....In a side note, i do not really understand the obsession with the Banana king? Also, did Sal have an affair with Lee Ann at some point?
The functions in this section are developing plot, setting [since there is vast description of the mountains], character development [namely, Major] and very prominantly: development of theme. In this section Kerouac frequently discussed the meaning of life - he asks Rita what she wants out of life, wonders why God made life sad, and describes how he loves life and it is precious. This theme also relates to the Beat Generation on the whole and Kerouac's rules for himself [be in love with your life].
A really powerful simile, I thought, is on page 54: "they were like the man with the dungeon stone and the gloom, rising from the underground, the sordid hipsters of America, a new beat generation that I was slowly joining." It illustrates how the beat generation is beginning and the contrast of lifestyles.
The theme that Americans have this never satisfied hunger is continued in this section, as Sal desires to get to San Francisco while on his way back to Denver- his desired destination for so long. He is never satisfied - just as the majority of our population is - we always want more.
Sal says hes going to meet up with people when he gets to San Francisco but do you really think he will? I'm not sure but I doubt hes going to see Rita again. Im not sure but there seems to be a pattern of people leaving so far in On the Road but I'm not sure if thats intentional or for a specific purpose - what do you think?
Benjy... the Paradise pun is a good point I didnt really think about that. And to answer your questions - I dont know about the Banana king... but for Lee Ann - I'm not positive but I dont really think they had an affair. All he said was "I am not to touch Lee Ann" - and then he explains how Remi tells them to stay away from each other. While this could imply something, I think that he would have made it more obvious especially cause this whole thing is basically a stream of consciousness and non censensored so I think he would have included how he feels about Lee Ann or just provide more evidence.
For Chapters 8-11, they serve the functions of being transition chapters, they develop character, especially Remi B., and it advances the plot because it is just another spot on his road trip. A theme that is developing throughout the book so far, is that Sal always feels like he needs to be on the road, and moving. For example, once he feels that he has nothing left to do, he realizes that he must move on. At the end of Chapter 11, he realizes it is time to move on, and go back on the road back east. Another thing it that Sal always seems to overuse his welcome. Yes he was welcome in Denver, but he decides to move on to San Francisco. Yes, he was welcome in San Francisco, but he goes too far, with the dinner with the stepfather. It seems that he might sometimes act like this on purpose, so that he has an excuse to be back on the road. On the road is where he seems the most himself.
The overall importance of chapters 9-11, in my opinion, is very critical in the development of Sal, Remi, and Dean. I think that we can relate the three characters with some sort of theme related to America (maybe somebody can help me out on this one). What I mean by this is that Remi seems to be like a very proper individual on the outside, resembling the European level of conformity and proper behavior, seeing as he has perfect French and English, but on the inside, he is much more wild than any characters in the book so far. This compares to Dean and Sal, representing the non-conformist and free thinking that is America, and may have attracted Remi in the first place. This is particularly evident when Sal embarrasses himself in front of Remi's stepfather because it could connect to America's uniqueness compared to Europe. Going along with what Zach said, I believe that these chapters show the level of energy and impatience that Sal has, and it may very well result in a major conflict appearing, especially in chapter 11, when he finds himself penniless and rather clueless. As far as literary devices, I was once again awed by the level of imagery in which Kerouac incorporates into his work, as well as his similes, like in the last sentence of Chapter 11. Finally, I would concur with Benjy and Elizabeth in their belief in the pun about paradise, I think it is very interesting.
First off... what is up guys, everybody is so unfriendly in these things..hope you all had a great afternoon and have a solid evening. I believe that zach made a great point in stating that sal seems to overstay his welcome. Sal does seem more comfortable on the road but i also feel that this is because he does not feel like he belongs in each of the places he has been at so far. My prediction would be that towards the end of the book he settles in a place he truly loves and feels that he belongs. In regards to the functions of the chapters, the continue to develop the main characters like sal and remi. last i will say that i was dissapointed in sals character because of him showing up drunk and late to the dinner and dissapointing remi. this makes me question him as a person and kind of steers me away from relating withy him.
First off... what is up guys, everybody is so unfriendly in these things..hope you all had a great afternoon and have a solid evening. I believe that zach made a great point in stating that sal seems to overstay his welcome. Sal does seem more comfortable on the road but i also feel that this is because he does not feel like he belongs in each of the places he has been at so far. My prediction would be that towards the end of the book he settles in a place he truly loves and feels that he belongs. In regards to the functions of the chapters, the continue to develop the main characters like sal and remi. last i will say that i was dissapointed in sals character because of him showing up drunk and late to the dinner and dissapointing remi. this makes me question him as a person and kind of steers me away from relating withy him.
I agree that chapters 8 9 and 10 were transition chapters, where Sal decided he no longer wanted to be in Denver and he decideds to go to San Francisco. Chapter 11 we learn alot about Remi boncoeur and his relationship with Sal. He thinks sal is very funny and really looks highly open him until Sal ruins their friendship and leaves.
also during these chapters kerouac's writting was alot like he was talking to someone, at one point he explains why he is talking about San Fran. (61)
Like, Benjy i also noticed the paradise pun, where it is his last name and Remi B sees sal as paradise , it is very ironic because he is the opposite of paradise, he is very unhappy and gloomy as he says during the opera that he see life as "what a gloom!"(52).
also we see the theme of life being a journey,because sal is not able to stay in one place for long as if he is looking for something and he will not settle down until he finds it.
I agree with Benjy and Elizabeth about the symbolism of the word Paradise, and Remi's use of it. Furthermore, i find that Remi is the embodiment of Sal's desires- he never does anything strenuous, yet always ends up well fed, in good company, with lots of money, and with few cares.
I think that chapters 9 & 10i are transitioning chapters, as well developers of Sal's character. We learn that despite the beat generation stereotypes, there really is more to life for him than mindless partying, drugs/alcohol, and random conversation. We see that he has high-ish standards by the way he acts at the party and with Rita.
In chapter 11, which is mainly used to introduce Remi and develop his relationship with Sal, we also see that Sal is much less of a "beatnik" than he was originally tagged; unlike Roland and the Rawlinses, Sal recognizes the need for a certain degree of conformity to society, as per his job and meeting with Remi's stepfather.
For literary devices, there was a lot of imagery and many similes, on of the best being on page 54, where Sal compared Carlo and Dean to the dungeon man
also, our blog is set to pacific standard time
ohhh i couldnt figure out why it always said the wrong time when i posted it hahaha thanks charlie... and thanks justin you too =)
also i forget who said it i think zach.. but i really agree that Sal is most himself when traveling and maybe thats why hes not really content staying in one spot - maybe hes like finding himself through his travels and experiencing new things in life which is why he likes it so much?
ps was this the right assignment? i kinda just answered cause i didnt know what to do
Well Charlie, we are taking a literary journey west after all. It's quite apt.
Thank you for the kindly greeting, Justin. Chivalry has returned to the posts.
Incidentally, Charlie's posts and the whole thing about the Banana king remind me of Charlie the Unicorn 2.
"Charlie, you're the banana king!"
I think that Charlie's assessment of these few chapters are valid. I do think that the reason for these chapters is to transition and develop Remi as a character. I really like Remi because he reminds me a lot of my self. He tends to get the things he needs like money and few without really working for it. I too am the same way, I am lazy and and tend to take the easy road, but i always seem to end up in a good place.
I'm gonna go out on a limb here and say that every section of chapters we are going to read will be transition chapters, and here's why. The book is about a road trip and he goes from place to place, hence forth by going from place to place he is always transitioning into a new section of the book.
As for literary devices, i noticed a solid amount of imagery and similie.
Interesting discussion here...
I agree with basically everything being said here... especially the "Paradise" part, and what was just mentioned about "transition chapters."
"Paradise" could be making not only a statement about that moment and Sal himself, but about America as a whole. Sal is on a road trip, living life to its fullest and discovering more and more about his country every day. This was a beatnik's lifestyle. This pseudonym for Kerouac and particularly its use in that context could be Kerouac telling us that this life is a paradise. This is how ALL of us should live. This is our specific paradise as AMERICANS.
The "transition chapter" thing got me thinking too. While I was reading last night, I noticed that almost every time I described the function of a chapter, I marked it as having a decisively transitional purpose. Scratch that; it's what I wrote EVERY time. Also, a bunch (if not all) of the chapters were really important for developing character. We learn about Sal through how he interacts with his circle of friends. If we link these two together, we can say that Sal's travels through America changes him as a person.
Linking this back to the "paradise" thing, we can say that since Sal is representative of America as a whole and his life is a paradise, our lives are very much dependent on our country. Not the government, since members of the beat generation were very much against the strictness of the institution. We as citizens make up the country and we can only truy achieve "paradise" when we accept that and can explore both our identity and our country's freely.
I pretty much agree with everything that is being said. I think Jasia's comment on how all of these chapters are transitions, which show him changing as a person, is very insightful and significant. I feel that throughout the entire book, this theme of self-discovery and coming of age will be inter-woaven, and I think it is important to understand this in terms of structure and function.
hey guys
Sorry I'm posting so late, but I didn't realize there was a new blog until now.
I think that the function of Chapter 9 is to develop the theme of greed. Although, I find Zach's point intriguing, I don't think that Sal has a constant need to be on the road, but he is just never happy with what he has and always needs to move on. This is displayed in Chapter 9, because he has all this fun at this new city and meets all these new people, but he still wants to move on to San Francisco at the end.
Chapter 10 is definitely a transition chapter, moving Sal from Denver to San Francisco. It also further displays this need to move on, because of greed.
Chapter 11 displayed many different functions. The most prominent was the development of character, especially Sal and Remi. I completely agree with Justin in the sense that Sal was a disappointment when he arrived at dinner drunk. Remi did so much for Sal and loved him so much, and Sal could not even return one favor for his friend. I felt extremely sad for Remi and disgusted by Sal. Chapter 11 also introduces a conflict and further develops this them e of greed. He cannot stay in one place, because basically he gets bored. Yet, it is interesting as to why he leaves San Francisco. I think its because of the guilt Sal carries of letting down his friend, but I'm not sure.
In terms of literary devices, I think everyone has basically mentioned all the ones that exist. I prefer Kerouac's writing when they aren't there though, because it is more true to "first thought, best thought" and it sounds more natural. I really liked the quote that Elizabeth introduced, from page 54, because I think it really defines characterization and the change encompassing Sal.
also I think it's set to pacific standard time because it's a website by google ( i think) which is based in California
but don't quote me on that, because I'm not sure
Budlow does make sense in his claim about how every chapter is supposed to be a transition chapter. But i think that Kerouac is trying to argue something more. Kerouac is trying to argue that for one to transition to something else, they must go through trials and loss of innocence (sorry guys) and all that other great stuff in order to move. Kerouac is trying to tell us that no matter how simple an idea is, no matter how stupid it might sound, no matter how foolish it is, there is purpose and there is cause and effect. Kerouac is trying to tell us that we must learn from past experiences and we must pick our own destination with trustworthy friends.
Here comes the good part :)
Life is about teamwork, people cannot just move on their own. They cannot disguise themselves as another person and pass as him/her, people are heart (i know i stretched it, BUT I LOVE THAT LINE) and thus we need to find our hearts with the help of others. That is the point of this entire road trip.
For these reasons, i shalt argue that the main theme in this book is that only conflict and an odyssey can make people realize who they are and what they want.
The reason that each of these chapters introduce a different idea like gluttony, lust, or giving is to show that Sal is getting introduced to all these things and he will later have to decide on what to take and what it is that he actually desires...
I finally got around to reading the chapters.
As you all have said, Chapters 9, 10, and 11 serve to advance the plot and setting, develop conflicts, and introduce /develop characters.
Chapter 9 details more of what Sal does in Denver and develops several characters – particularly Roland Major. I didn’t really think of this, but I do suppose that chapter 10 (and the very beginning of chapter 11) serves to detail the transition between Sal’s time in Denver and San Francisco. Chapters 9 and 10 also show the growing divide between Dean and Sal – before he left, Sal realizes that he had not talked to Dean for more than five minutes the entire time. Chapter 11 introduces and develops Remi Boncoeur and his wife, Lee Ann. The conflict between the Sal and the couple is introduced: Sal is friends with Remi but finds Lee Ann attractive (he wants to “jump down from a mast and land right in her”, and Lee Ann despises both of, upset that Remi is so poor. As the chapter progresses, the relationship between the three continues to deteriorate culminating in the Sal’s embarrassment of Remi in front of Remi’s father, the arrival of Major and Sam’s departure from Remi’s shack.
Notably in chapter 9, Fidelio is an important motif. Sal, a little oddly, takes a particular liking to “what gloom!” – it reflects his, Dean’s and Carlo’s view of life. As he expresses in a later simile, “They were like the man with the dungeon stone and the gloom, rising from the underground, the sordid hipster of America, a new beat generation that I was slowly joining.” As Sweetwood (sorry, your first name escapes me) said, his last name is misleading and does not reflect his downtrodden look of life and his uninspired writing. If I am not mistaken, the above simile is also marks the first mention of “beat generation” in On the Road.
The upside down American flag could possibly represent Sal’s dysfunctional world.
Charlie - I disagree that Remi is the embodiment of Sal’s desires. Rather, Sal is taken aback by the bitterness (which largely stems from Remi’s massive debt) that exists between Remi and Ann Lee.
Benjy – I seriously doubt that Sal and Lee Ann are having an affair. Lee Ann hates Sal, and Remi tells Sal not to touch Lee Ann. I think the part about the Banana King is just a joke by Remi poking fun about Sal’s writing.
The purpose of Chapter 9 is to advance the plot. After the party at Central City, Sal has had enough of Denver and he wants to go to San Francisco. The character of some of them is further developed as well. Chapter 10 is a transition chapter between the party and when Sal will depart for San Francisco. His friends arrange to meet him there. Chapter 11 further develops the plot a lot, as well as introducing the character Remi. Remi is supposedly a friend of Sal's from before, but at the end of the chapter, their friendship is broken. Sal also describes his awkward experience there, such as living with Lemi and a woman who hates him, working as a guard at a rowdy barracks, and stealing stuff from that barracks. Remi likes to spend his money, while Sal likes to send them to his aunt. At the end, their friendship ends and Sal begins to get tired of San Francisco as well.
Hey guys, sorry this is so late, I had trouble getting internet service.
I thought that chapters 9-11 definitely advanced the theme that was earlier introduced into the book, of taking more than one road. Sal realizes that he cannot only stay in Denver because there is so much more in life that he wants to see and learn. At first, Sal had the misconception that he could follow only one road on his journey; finally, he realizes that he has learned everything he possibly could in Denver. Also, Sal realizes that he has not spoken to Dean for more than five minutes in the time that he has been in Denver, which further depresses him. Sal decides to continue on his roadtrip to San Francisco.
I definitely agree with Olivia's comment about how greed is developed in these chapters. Although I personally believe Sal's motivation to journey westward was more inspired by a longing for new experiences, he could have been partially selfish and just wanted to move on from a really good life in Denver. However, Sal quickly realizes that there will always be some form of conflict wherever he travels, for, in San Fran, he longs for his friend Remi's wife. This may develop some of Sal's greed as well.
Also, I agree with everybody on the literary devices that have been mentioned. I definitely like the style of Kerouac's writing though, because it reminds me of a Holden Caufield-like character. I think it can be really shocking to read Sal's narration because he says EXACTLY what is on his mind.
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