Naked Lunch by William S. Burroughs (Book Analysis)

This practical and insightful reading guide offers a complete summary and analysis of Naked Lunch by William S. Burroughs. It provides a thorough exploration of the novel’s plot, characters and main themes, including politics, obscenity and the principles of the Beat Generation. The clear and concise style makes for easy understanding, providing the perfect opportunity to improve your literary knowledge in no time.

This clear and detailed 52-page reading guide is structured as follows:

• Biography of William S. Burroughs
• Presentation of Naked Lunch
• Summary of Naked Lunch
• Character study
  • Lee
  • Dr Benway
  • The Mugwumps
• Analysis of Naked Lunch
  • The Beat Generation
  • Jumbled up
  • Obscenity galore
  • Political landscapes

About Naked Lunch

Naked Lunch is considered one of the most graphic and controversial novels of the 20^th century. It is told from the perspective of William Lee, a drug addict, who recounts his experiences in a seemingly alien landscape which may or may not be the product of a drug-induced hallucination. The non-linear plot and psychedelic imagery add to the confusion, while the novel’s graphic depictions of sex, rape and murder led to outcry when it was first published in the 1950s. However, the ensuing legal battle over charges of obscenity actually paved the way for increased freedom of expression in the United States.

About William S. Burroughs

William S. Burroughs was born into a well-off family and had a privileged upbringing. After finishing his studies at Harvard University, Burroughs became acquainted with Jack Kerouac and Allen Ginsberg, together with whom he would later become one of the leading figures of the Beat Generation literary movement. His work is characterized by often-graphic explorations of drug addiction and homosexuality, and played a key role in the overturning of American censorship laws regarding ‘obscenity’ in published works.