Quest for Authentic Existence in Jack Kerouac’s On the Road

Abstract

This research attempts to study Jack Kerouac’s On the Road as an expression of the quest of authentic existence. By creating the characters who attempt to confront the issues of existence with varying degrees of courage and cowardice, Kerouac contrasts between authentic mode of existence and mere existence. The portrayal of Kerouac’s Dean Moriarty as an existential hero committed to attain authenticity is contrasted with Salvatore Paradise and other characters who in spite of being involved in the search of authentic existence, finally embrace ordinary existence and give up their real search. Contrarily, Dean remains determined in his quest, despite his miseries that have surrounded him because of his actions for authenticity. Dean denies surrendering to the public domination and violates the accepted norms and values of the society. Consequently, his quest can be noticed in his act of going beyond the boundaries of economic, religious and social conformity, and in creating personal values.