Social Pressures Reflected in Ginsberg’s “Howl” Post World War II America produced a number of images that will be forever imprinted on the minds of Americans. Such images as television shows like “Leave It To Beaver” and “I Love Lucy,” movies such as “An Affair To Remember,” and “Brigadoon,” are watched frequently even in today’s society. But in this world of fairytale movies and the “American Dream,” what about those who didn’t fit into the picture of perfection and prosperity? These men became the basis of an underground network of dissident writers, teachers, artists and filmmakers. Often a reaction against the strict standards of normalcy held by the American public and the bureaucracy of the government, their work not only carried them through the 50’s and 60’s, but continues to inspire those who are exposed to it. The literature from this generation was defined clearly by two works; “On the Road,” by Jack Kerouac, and “Howl,” by Allen Ginsberg. These writings were a stark reality check for the American people who lived in their idealistic neighborhoods. With the expressed purpose of bringing the reality of aberration to society, Allen Ginsberg created a masterpiece in “Howl.” It is the portrayal of the lives of many of his closest friends and associates, among them, Neal Cassady, Peter Orlovsky, William Burroughs, and Jack Kerouac. “Howl,” published in 1956, is a poem in three parts. The first, and perhaps most quoted section, explains how Allen Ginsberg saw “the best minds” of his generation “destroyed by madness.” He carefully describes the repression his group faced because of their beliefs and actions. The American society did not accept Ginsberg’s homosexuality, his political beliefs, or his use of drugs. His friends were condemned in man...
