BOOK BRIEF

Howl and Other Poems

Allen Ginsberg
Guide cover placeholder

Howl and Other Poems

Nonfiction | Poetry Collection | YA | Published in 1956

Book Brief

Sparkles iconBeta
Allen Ginsberg

Howl and Other Poems

Nonfiction | Poetry Collection | YA | Published in 1956
Book Details
Format

Poetry Collection • Nonfiction

Setting

San Francisco • 1950s

Publication Year

1956

Audience

YA

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

Roundup icon

Super Short Summary

Howl and Other Poems by Allen Ginsberg is a collection of poetry that captures the struggles and experiences of a person within the counterculture and beat generation of the 1950s. The work explores themes of mental health, societal norms, and the search for identity. Major poems include "Howl," "A Supermarket in California," and "Sunflower Sutra."

Reviews & Readership

Roundup icon

Review Roundup

Howl and Other Poems by Allen Ginsberg is lauded for its raw emotional power and groundbreaking style, encapsulating the spirit of the Beat Generation. Critics appreciate its bold social commentary and vivid imagery. However, some find its explicit content and unconventional form challenging. Overall, it remains a seminal work in American poetry, celebrated for its audacious, unapologetic voice.

Who should read this

Who Should Read Howl and Other Poems?

Readers who appreciate the raw, unfiltered emotion and social critique in poetry would enjoy Allen Ginsberg's Howl and Other Poems. Fans of Jack Kerouac's On the Road or William S. Burroughs' Naked Lunch will find similar beat generation themes. Ideal for those captivated by countercultural movements and poetic innovation.

Book Details
Format

Poetry Collection • Nonfiction

Setting

San Francisco • 1950s

Publication Year

1956

Audience

YA

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

Buy This Book

We’re just getting started

Add this title to our list of requested Study Guides!