Dharma Bums Chapter 33-34

After many chapters of following Ray and Japhy through their psychological and physical adventures, I have finally come to the end. In the beginning of chapter 33 Ray finds himself on top of a mountain in which he can see land for many, many miles, small clouds below him, and most importantly he is realizing that he is now able to identify the rivers and mountains that Japhy has taught him about. Ray is astounded that currently he is the only person in the world viewing this site at this point in time. While he is a-top this mountain he experiences a number of different types of weather, although he enjoys the free life he lives while on the mountain and begins to believe that he understands a part of the world that most people don't understand. Finally the last chapter begins and Ray finds himself alone on the mountain top with an abundance of stormy weather in which he suddenly feels free because he believes that nothing matters, resulting in his inspiration. Soon after he is radioed to leave his mountain top haven and takes one last look around before descending the mountain. He feels a connection with Japhy, the man who taught him so much, and he feels very connected with him even though he is physically so far away. He then thanks God, prays for the people, and also thanks the shack with a simple, "blah" as he walks back down the mountain.


When I took a closer look at the end of the book I began to acquire a better understanding of what the author meant. I think that during Ray's time at Desolation Peak he started to get an understanding of how the world is empty, meaningless, yet all the while beautiful. I believe that Kerouac is describing the changing weather patterns, the little shack in the fog, and the various animals that come across Ray's path because it parallels how Ray is living with no particular thought or goal in mind. Another aspect of these last chapters to take into consideration is how Ray is almost constantly standing on his head Not only does it create circulation but it also is reminiscent of one of the main themes within Dharma Bums, which is Buddhism. I believe that Kerouac is ultimately trying to portray to readers that life shouldn't be taken too seriously - so Ray stands on his head and says, 'blah' with a smile to show that even though he feels as though he has learned so much during his time on the mountain, he doesn't part with some all-inspiring and outstanding quote.