The Buddhist Years is a brand new volume of previously unpublished writings from the archives reflecting Jack Kerouac’s Buddhist thinking.

From a young age Kerouac was a spiritual thinker and questioner, and he always considered himself a spiritual writer. In late 1953, feeling devastated after the breakup of a two-month romance as well as publishers’ reluctance to accept On The Road, he immersed himself in the study of Buddhist writings, finding consolation in its Four Noble Truths, especially the first, that life involves suffering, and the third, that suffering can be overcome by letting go of cravings and attachments. Buddhism also gave more meaning to Kerouac’s efforts as a writer: he was working not for personal accomplishment and glory but for human betterment. And Buddhism justified his lifestyle: with its vision of the material world as empty and illusory, he was free to do what he wanted.

This collection shows Jack at his earnest, soulful best. The writing is consistently and wonderfully Kerouacian: it is honest, reflective, heartfelt, and revealing, with great characterizations amid his self-exploration as he wrestles with his consciousness, desperate for belief.