Maher Jr., Paul (Kerouac, Jack)

Jack Kerouac: Beat Traveller

Coventry, England, UK: Beat Scene Press, 2024. Limited First Edition. Stapled Wrappers. Signed by Paul Maher Jr. "On a broader plane, (Jack) Kerouac foresaw that his "vision of America" was annihilated by the "beatnik movement" and that it was nothing more than "a big move-in from intellectual dissident wrecks of all kinds and now even anti-American, America-haters of all kinds with placards who call themselves beatniks." Kerouac accurately predicted a split between two camps; "America-lovers" and "America-haters." But he was insistent that he would go on "scribbling" and, ultimately, living in a cabin from which he could just "admire" and not "Get involved in discussions about society problems." But the rumblings of America that Kerouac detested were what Allen Ginsberg thrived on." (pg. 43) A critical-biographical piece on the last decade of Jack Kerouac (1922-1969), Founding Father of the Beat Generation, as the aftermath of his sudden rise to fame brought disillusionment, alcoholism & ultimately death- but as he continued to write & develop his vision to the end. Author Paul Maher Jr. (b. 1963) is an acclaimed & prolific author who has written extensively on Kerouac's life and work, & this essay is excerpted from his recent volume, Drunken Dumbshow: Kerouac in the 60s (2021). Large chapbook-format booklet in stapled wrappers, a special production of Kevin Ring's Beat Scene Press, one of an edition of 150 copies published in November 2024, this is hand-numbered copy No. 30/150 per colophon. With vintage contemporary images of Kerouac & Co. at front cover & throughout. On the title page, below his printed name, Paul Maher Jr. has hand-written his signature in black ink. An instant Kerouac-related rarity; a beautiful BSP collectible further enriched by the distinguished author's signature. See our many issues of the indispensable Beat Scene magazine, & other special BSP produtions. In very fine as-new condition with only some light rubbing to blank right margin of rear cover & spine (minor flaws as issued); a few tiny bumps, creases at/from edges & corners of front, back covers & stapled spine. Interior very fine with only tiny bumps at lower corners of some page leaves. Very Fine. [Item #9356]

Price: $50.00