On the Road Dissatisfaction Quotes

How we cite our quotes: Citations follow this format: (Part.Chapter.Paragraph)

Quote #22

How disastrous all this was compared to what I’d written him from Paterson, planning my red line Route 6 across America. Here I was at the end of America - no more land - and now there was nowhere to go but back. I determined at least to make my trip a circular one: I decided then and there to go to Hollywood and back through Texas to see my bayou gang; then the rest be damned. (I.11.96)

Sal is disappointed to find that he has gone as far west as possible and not found what he is looking for – whatever that may be.

Quote #23

Rickey had a bottle. "Today we drink, tomorrow we work. Dah you go, man - take a shot!"

Terry sat in back with her baby; I looked back at her and saw the flush of homecoming joy on her face. The beautiful green countryside of October in California reeled by madly. I was guts and juice again and ready to go. "Where do we go now, man?" (I.13.16)

Alcohol seems to increase Sal’s need for constant motion.

Quote #24

I was through with my chores in the cottonfield. I could feel the pull of my own life calling me back. I shot my aunt a penny postcard across the land and asked for another fifty. (I.13.44)

When at home, Sal feels the pull of the road, but when on the road, Sal feels the need to return home.