Abstract

Honest, controversial, inspirational—each of these words undoubtedly describes the poet Allen Ginsberg. As a member of the Beat Generation, Ginsberg was unafraid to address issues such as homosexuality, insanity, and politics. His blunt and explicit style displayed a cultural reality which shocked and inspired many members of the 20^th century. Ginsberg’s famous poem, “Howl” proved an influential turning point in the expansion of canonical literature. Ginsberg used his poetry as a means of exploration and often questioned his own identity within them. This paper analyses two poems which address Ginsberg’s belief that poetry can satiate one’s need for societal acceptance and act as a transcendent vessel.