"The Beat" refers to a literary and cultural movement that emerged in the 1950s in the United States. It was characterized by a group of writers and artists who rejected conventional societal norms and explored themes of spirituality, sexuality, and personal freedom. Key figures included Jack Kerouac, Allen Ginsberg, and William S. Burroughs, who often experimented with new forms of writing and expression. The movement was closely associated with jazz music, which influenced its rhythm and style. The Beat Generation also played a significant role in the counterculture of the 1960s, inspiring various social movements and artistic expressions that challenged mainstream values.