The Subterraneans
The Subterraneans
Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 1958
Book Brief
128
Novel • Fiction
San Francisco, California • 1950s
1958
Adult
18+ years
Super Short Summary
The Subterraneans by Jack Kerouac, a semi-fictional novella written in 1958, explores the tumultuous romance between Leo Percepied, a struggling writer, and Mardou Fox, a carefree African-American woman in San Francisco's Beat scene. Friendships, substance dependence, and personal demons impact the relationship, culminating in introspection and unresolved longing. This story includes references to mental health and substance abuse.
Mysterious
Gritty
Melancholic
Bittersweet
Contemplative
Reviews & Readership
16,146 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Review Roundup
Jack Kerouac's The Subterraneans receives a mix of acclaim and criticism. It's praised for its vivid portrayal of bohemian life and Kerouac's signature spontaneous prose style. However, some find the narrative disjointed and critique its portrayal of female characters. Overall, it stands as a significant but polarizing work in the Beat generation canon.
Who Should Read The Subterraneans?
Readers who savor the spontaneous prose and jazz-influenced rhythms of Jack Kerouac’s work will find The Subterraneans appealing. It’s perfect for fans of On the Road and those engaged by beat culture, existential quests, and the raw exploration of personal relationships and urban life, akin to works like Allen Ginsberg's Howl.
16,146 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
128
Novel • Fiction
San Francisco, California • 1950s
1958
Adult
18+ years
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