I need a change of venue, menu, sinew or perhaps buy A clue. I've been reading Jack Kerouac's Big Sur this week. His work is amazing. His use of language, pace, and imagry are incredible. But it's obvious he was burning the candle at both ends and I'm surprised he lived to be 47 years old. He sucked the marrow out of the bone of life.
When I read his work, I can see he influenced a generation of writers who came after. I wonder if he realized the impact he would have.
Thinking about Jack reminded me of a verse from a Henry Wadsworth Longfellow poem is etched in my mind like a tattoo -
Lives of great men all remind us
We can make our lives sublime,
And, departing, leave behind us
Footprints on the sands of time
When I read his work, I can see he influenced a generation of writers who came after. I wonder if he realized the impact he would have.
Thinking about Jack reminded me of a verse from a Henry Wadsworth Longfellow poem is etched in my mind like a tattoo -
Lives of great men all remind us
We can make our lives sublime,
And, departing, leave behind us
Footprints on the sands of time
This comment has been removed by the author.
ReplyDeleteLike you said, Kerouac was burning the candle at both ends. I wonder how better he would have been if he didn't had his alcoholic demons consuming him...
ReplyDeleteHe had a great talent just the same.
Have a great day Rick.
JB
I should probably read something from him. What do you recommend for a casual reader.
ReplyDeleteI hope I've left some footprints!!
ReplyDeleteHow true these words and such a shame this man was so self-destructive. I love your picture as well-very vibrant colours
ReplyDeleteI am more a fan of Longfellow than Kerouac. I have always enjoyed "A Psalm Of Life".
ReplyDeleteThere are times that one's talent is not recognized until time has taken it's own. Then some leave footprints and others can remember seeing them being made.
ReplyDeleteVery good entry. Longfellow said many things that STICK like glue.
Happy Birthday! (OLD MAN)