Howl and Other Poems by Allen Ginsberg

Allen Ginsberg's 'Howl, and Other Poems' is a seminal work that shook the literary world upon its publication in 1956. The collection, particularly the poem 'Howl,' became the center of an obscenity trial, challenging the boundaries of free speech and artistic expression. Ginsberg's unflinching portrayal of society and his innovative use of language marked a turning point in American poetry. This book is not just a collection of poems but a cultural landmark. It captures the disillusionment and rebellion of the Beat Generation, offering a vivid and unfiltered look at the era. Ginsberg's work continues to inspire and provoke, making 'Howl, and Other Poems' a must-read for those interested in the intersection of literature and social change.

Reviews

City Lights Booksellers & Publishers · 2025-10-28

compelling 4.50

The collection is a powerful critique of society, blending raw emotion with vivid imagery. It's a must-read for those interested in the Beat Generation and its impact on literature.

City Lights Booksellers & Publishers present 'Howl and Other Poems' as a powerful critique of society. The collection blends raw emotion with vivid imagery, offering a stark commentary on middle-class complacency, consumerism, and capitalist militarism. The reviewer appreciates how Ginsberg's work also celebrates the pleasures and freedoms of the physical world, making it a compelling read. The collection is seen as a must-read for those interested in the Beat Generation and its enduring impact on literature.

Quick quotes

The collection is a powerful critique of society, blending raw emotion with vivid imagery.

It's a must-read for those interested in the Beat Generation and its impact on literature.

Ginsberg's work celebrates the pleasures and freedoms of the physical world.

Jazzwise · 2025-10-28

timeless 4.00

The poem is a vivid portrayal of the Beat Generation, capturing the essence of alienation and rebellion. It's a timeless piece that resonates with readers even today.

The reviewer from Jazzwise highlights how 'Howl and Other Poems' is a vivid portrayal of the Beat Generation. The poem captures the essence of alienation and rebellion that defined the era. The reviewer appreciates the timeless quality of Ginsberg's work, noting how it continues to resonate with readers today. The raw emotion and powerful imagery make it a compelling read, offering a glimpse into the minds of a generation that sought freedom and meaning in a world that often rejected them.

Quick quotes

The poem is a vivid portrayal of the Beat Generation, capturing the essence of alienation and rebellion.

It's a timeless piece that resonates with readers even today.

The raw emotion and powerful imagery make it a compelling read.

John Pistelli · John Pistelli · 2016-09-04

insightful 4.50

The collection is a powerful critique of society, blending raw emotion with vivid imagery. It's a must-read for those interested in the Beat Generation and its impact on literature.

John Pistelli delves into the raw and unfiltered world of Allen Ginsberg's 'Howl and Other Poems'. He highlights how Ginsberg's work serves as a strident critique of middle-class complacency, consumerism, and capitalist militarism. The collection is not just a critique but also a celebration of the physical world and the freedoms it offers. Pistelli appreciates the emotional depth and vivid imagery that Ginsberg brings to his poetry, making it a compelling read for anyone interested in the Beat Generation and its enduring influence on literature.

Quick quotes

Ginsberg's work is a powerful critique of society, blending raw emotion with vivid imagery.

The collection is a must-read for those interested in the Beat Generation and its impact on literature.

Ginsberg's poetry is a celebration of the physical world and the freedoms it offers.

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