Jack Kerouac died on this date in 1969 as a result of his alcoholism. I’ve read two of his books, the two most readers are familiar with: On the Road and Dharma Bums. In hindsight, I think the first book is a bit over-rated, but the later is definitely a worthwhile read. That said, Kerouac the man was an interesting dude, though obviously flawed (like all of us). Being a Deadhead means I’m well aware of his connection with the even weirder Neal Cassidy.

In honor of Kerouac, I thought I’d share 5 interesting quotes by the author.

  1. “Be in love with your life, every detail of it.” — Selected Letters

  2. “Maybe that’s what life is… a wink of the eye and winking stars.” — The Dharma Bums (1958)

  3. “Nothing behind me, everything ahead of me, as is ever so on the road.” — On the Road (1957)

  4. “One man practicing kindness in the wilderness is worth all the temples this world pulls.” — The Dharma Bums (1958)

  5. “College or no college, the world is a book and I have read my page.” — Letter to Sebastian Sampas (1941)