What does law enforcement represent in the novel? On the Road Analysis

On the Road Analysis
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October 24, 2018
Introduction
The main plot of Jack Kerouac’s novel, On the Road, revolves around the time of the 1940s. As seen in the novel, this was also the time when most people have dreamt of touring the country and doing whatever they want, free from the constraints of society. On the one hand, it could be argued that this lifestyle has always been associated with the concept of freedom. A kind of lifestyle filled with themes of sex, violence, espionage, and vices, among others. On the other hand, these kinds of actions have also been portrayed as against the rules and order of society. This is due to the presence of law enforcement that is always in pursuit of ‘bad guys,’ regardless of whatever reason they may have. In line with this, the author believes that in the main story, law enforcement symbolizes peace and order, amidst the chaos and conflict that these ‘free’ lifestyles represent. Particularly, it is due to the subtle yet noticeable presence of the police that reminds the readers that Dean’s actions, although unrestricted at most, have their repercussions.
Law Enforcement and the Idea of Freedom
Throughout the whole story, themes of suffering, loneliness, and dissatisfaction have always been present. These have been seen as the main driving force behind the actions of Dean and Sally, as to why they have preferred the life of traveling, free from the rules of society. It was due to dissatisfaction with the way of life, that Dean has moved from one place to another in his search of the perfect lifestyle. In contrast to this, Sal has always found sadness with the lifestyle of the people around her, that she found herself lonely and isolated in her desire to find freedom. Consequently, it is Dean’s fearless pursuit of happiness that made Sal idolize him and find escape when being with him. From these, it becomes apparent that the main idea that connects both characters was the dissatisfaction with the ‘American’ way of life and the sanctuary that they find when they travel and do things their way.