BEATNIK

INFORMATIONKerouac introduced the phrase “Beat Generation” in 1948, generalizing from his social circle to characterize the underground, anti-conformist youth gathering in New York at that time. The name came up in conversation with the novelist John Clellon Holmes who published on early Beat Generation novel.

The adjective “beat” was introduces to the group by Herbert Huncke, though Kerouac expanded the meaning of the term “Beat” came from underworld slang- the world of hustlers, drug addicts and petty thieves, where Allen Ginsberg.

PHOTOS AND CLOTHES

VIDEO

MUSIC STYLE What is Beatnik Music?

First, what is a Beatnik?

A Beatnik is one who does not allow society to slow him/herself down. It is one who lets their mind wonder by eliminating the distractions caused by society. This gives the Beatnik the necessary freedom for creativity and pure expression to come forth.

Beatnik music is not a particular type of music; it has no set style or pattern.

Beatnik music is any innovative style of music that can come from any genre.

Beatnik music can take the form of poems set to a beat.

What is the Cultural Impact of Beatnik Music?

Beatnik music had a pacifistic mentality.

Beatnik music was impartial to both race and sex.

Beatnik music provided an escape and a protest to World War II and later the Red Scare of the 1950's.

Who were the "Hep Cats" of Beatnik?

Jack Kerouac and Allen Ginsburg (both writers)

Buddy Holly (for his innovative sound)