Beat Transnationalism

The Beat generation had an intrinsic connection with Mexico. Its leading figures were also inspired by a global, multi-cultural milieu. A new book, ‘Beat Transnationalism’ by John Tytell, now reveals these underpinnings in the form of an essay collection, blended with letters the author wrote to his wife from Mexico in those rebellious times.

Tytell was once told by Allen Ginsberg that he would first have to experience life in Mexico to understand the Beat generation. After all, as we learn now, Ginsberg’s ‘Howl’ too carried some inspiration from the Mexican soil. An invitation from the Americas Society in Manhattan led Tytell to speak on Mexico and its role in shaping the Beat worldview.

Following Ginsberg’s lead, Tytell promptly headed south to Oaxaca as he worked on ‘Naked Angels’, the first book to explore the development of Beat literature.

‘Beat Transnationalism’ reveals the importance of Mexico to the Beat Generation. The primary focus is the importance of Mexico to the three best-known Beat figures – Allen Ginsberg, William S. Burroughs, and Jack Kerouac. The book delves even further, aiming to explore transnationalism among other members of the Beat Generation and also artists of the post-Beat era.