“On the Road” Author Jack Kerouac’s Success ‘Accelerated’ His Drinking as Critics ‘Destroyed Him,’ Says His Ex (Exclusive)

Jack Kerouac, the acclaimed author of the iconic novel “On the Road,” grappled with the pressures of fame and success, which ultimately exacerbated his struggles with alcoholism. As shared exclusively with PEOPLE, Kerouac’s former girlfriend and author Joyce Johnson shed light on how the relentless spotlight on the writer took a toll on his well-being.

Johnson disclosed that the overwhelming public response to Kerouac’s groundbreaking work in 1957 made him feel like he was constantly under attack. Critics hailed him as a representative of an entire generation, a role that Kerouac was unprepared for and uncomfortable with. Johnson reminisced about the time they together read the first review of “On the Road” in The New York Times, revealing Kerouac’s anxiety and reluctance to embrace the role of a spokesperson.

In a revealing conversation with filmmaker Ebs Burnough for the documentary “Kerouac’s Road: The Beat of a Nation,” Johnson delved into the complexities of Kerouac’s personality and the impact of his upbringing on his literary journey. The film explores Kerouac’s roots in Lowell, Massachusetts, portraying him as a shy, French-Canadian individual with a unique perspective on America.

Despite becoming a celebrated figure of the 20th century, Kerouac still maintained an outsider’s view of the society around him. The documentary reflects on how the themes presented in “On the Road” resonated with Americans and propelled Kerouac into the limelight, thrusting him into a world of interviews and public appearances that he found overwhelming.

Johnson highlighted how the intense public scrutiny not only fuelled Kerouac’s alcohol consumption but also led to a barrage of criticism from the literary establishment. The author felt like he was being “destroyed” by the negative attention, losing the anonymity that he cherished. The pressure to perform on talk shows and public platforms drove him further towards alcohol as a coping mechanism.

“Kerouac’s Road” features insights from various notable personalities, including actors Josh Brolin and Matt Dillon, shedding light on Kerouac’s enduring legacy and the challenges he faced in the wake of his literary success. The documentary captures the essence of Kerouac’s tumultuous journey through fame and his struggles with personal demons, offering a poignant reflection on a literary icon’s turbulent life.

As the film continues to garner attention in theatres, audiences are drawn into a compelling narrative that delves into the complexities of creative genius and the price of fame. Through Johnson’s intimate accounts and the perspectives of those who knew Kerouac closely, “Kerouac’s Road” unravels the layers of a man who revolutionised literature but grappled with the pitfalls of acclaim and recognition.

In conclusion, Jack Kerouac’s story serves as a poignant reminder of the challenges that often accompany success and acclaim. His tumultuous journey, marked by creative brilliance and personal struggles, continues to resonate with audiences decades after his passing. “Kerouac’s Road” offers a glimpse into the life of a literary icon who navigated fame and fortune while battling his inner demons, leaving behind a profound legacy that endures to this day.