"On the Road" is a novel written by Jack Kerouac, published in 1957. It is a defining work of the Beat Generation, capturing the spirit of adventure and the quest for meaning in post-World War II America. The story follows the journeys of Sal Paradise and his friends as they travel across the United States, exploring themes of freedom, friendship, and the search for identity. The narrative is largely autobiographical, reflecting Kerouac's own experiences and relationships. The book is known for its spontaneous prose style, which emphasizes a free-flowing, jazz-like rhythm. "On the Road" has had a significant impact on American literature and culture, inspiring generations of writers and travelers.