In this world of the internet, social media and instant information it’s
testament to the continuous effort of one man near Coventry that his self-produced
and fiercely independent magazine is still the first call for all matters
connected to the Beat Generation.
Kevin Ring's Beat Scene
issue 73 is upon us and, as always, I headed to the reviews sections where I found a look at a new collection of previously unpublished writing by Jack Kerouac, The Haunting Life and Other Writings (Da
Capo Press). First I’d heard of it. As the piece outlines there’s debate whether early work like this (from the mid-40s, when Kerouac was 22, and
years before the publication of his first novel) enhances or devalues his
reputation. Personally, as long as folk are aware of the context of what they’re
reading and have embraced the classics then there’s little harm to be done. The Haunting Life and Other Writings is now on my to-read list, knowing full well it won’t compete with even some of Jack’s
lesser novels, but for any clues and hints of what’s to come and to build a
fuller picture of the man, I’m content for these things to keep trickling out.
Elsewhere in this issue of Beat Scene there’s an interesting interview with Allen
Ginsberg from 1978 about Kerouac, at the point when Jacks’s books were
beginning to return to print after a period of critical mauling during his
final years, and then neglect after his death; a rather sad although not surprising
account by an acquaintance of William Burroughs Jr. (aka Billy, author of Speed and Kentucky Ham - both recommended reads by the way); Joyce Johnson; Ken Kesey; Lew Welch and much more.
Work is already underway for issue 74 which is focusses of the Beats In Britain
including the travels here by Kerouac, Burroughs, Ginsberg, Richard Brautigan,
Kenneth Rexroth and Michael McClure. Should be another good one.
For ordering and subscription details see Beat Scene.
No comments:
Post a Comment