San Francisco Blues

In his introduction to this small volume of poems, Kerouac indicates that it was his first book of poems written in 1954 in the form of blues choruses. He writes "...in these blues as in jazz, the form is determined by time, and by the musician's spontaneous phrasing & harmonizing with the beat of the time as it waves & waves on by in measured choruses." Indeed, the poems are divided into 80 one-page choruses and are quick snapshot-reflections on various details around the poet's everyday living, thinking, imagining, and walking in San Francisco. Some younger people may not readily understand the abstract "hipster" poetry, but it is obviously a great example of the great visionary poety and writings of Kerouac's world and time. It's a quick read and the reader's appreciation will grow with re-readings.