Core Viewpoint - The resurgence of Jack Kerouac's work, particularly "On the Road" and "The Beat Generation," reflects a cultural fascination with rebellion and self-discovery, appealing to today's higher-income youth in both the West and China [1][5][9]. Group 1: Kerouac's Literary Impact - Kerouac's script "The Beat Generation," written in 1957, was initially rejected but has been rediscovered, highlighting the cultural significance of his work [1]. - His literary style, characterized by "naturalism," captures the fragmented lives of a disillusioned higher-income group, lacking true innovation in dramatic technique [3][4]. - The notion of "automatic writing" employed by Kerouac has been critiqued as lacking depth, with his works often serving as a superficial outlet for readers' frustrations [4][6]. Group 2: Cultural Context and Relevance - Kerouac's appeal to modern youth is paradoxical, as he embodies a spirit of rebellion while also being consumed by a higher-income demographic that often seeks mere escapism rather than genuine literary engagement [5][6]. - The comparison between Kerouac and Che Guevara illustrates a fundamental difference in their pursuits; while Kerouac focused on personal salvation, Guevara's activism had broader social implications [7][8]. - The enduring popularity of Kerouac in contemporary China can be attributed to a similar cultural backdrop, where his themes of rebellion resonate with those seeking authenticity in a conformist society [9].