On the Road Lesson Plan

What role does the continuing trip to San Francisco play in Sal and Dean's contemplation of life's impermanence in On the Road?

As Sal and Dean continue their journey to San Francisco, Sal reflects on the transient nature of life. Observing his friends fade away in the rear window of the car, he becomes acutely aware of the ever-flowing stream of time and the constant experience of loss. This realization evokes conflicting emotions in Sal, as he finds the sense of impermanence both futile and liberating.

On the other hand, for Dean, retelling the stories of his past becomes a necessity during their journey through the towns of Texas and into California. These stories,...