A moody, intimate novel following Harry and Jay as they discover a lasting relationship with each other, bonded by their mutual love for Jack Kerouac and the Beats

“Beatitude” by Larry Closs is set in the vibrant streets of New York City in 1995, immersing readers in the lives of Harry Charity and Jay Bishop, two writers and avid enthusiasts of the Beat Generation. Both employed by Element magazine, the story opens with their anticipation as they embark on a journey to witness the original manuscript of Jack Kerouac’s iconic novel, “On the Road.”

In an evocative nod to the opening line of “On the Road,” the next chapter introduces Harry and Jay’s blossoming friendship, marked by quintessentially New York experiences—daily deli lunches, Allen Ginsberg readings at the Museum of Modern Art, and countless poetry slams and jazz performances in dive bars. As Harry’s feelings for Jay deepen, readers are drawn into the poignant tale of his previous failed relationship, all while wondering if Jay will choose his artistic girlfriend Zahra or the wistful and devoted Harry.

It becomes immediately evident that Closs shares the same deep love for the Beat Generation as his characters, Harry and Jay. “Beatitude” serves as a heartfelt love letter to a bygone era, filled with nostalgic sentiments and tender prose. By interweaving real-life figures with vivid depictions of New York City, Closs breathes life into his imagined characters and invites readers to step into a world of smoky bars and fading print magazines.

While those unfamiliar with the Beats may need to seek additional context about Kerouac, Burroughs, and Ginsberg to fully grasp the nuances of “Beatitude,” the book does provide a fair amount of biographical exposition about these literary icons. However, at times, the weight of this historical background slightly burdens the story, making it challenging to strike the right balance between providing enough information and overwhelming the narrative.

Nevertheless, it is difficult not to be swept up in the almost reverential fervor that Harry, Jay, and Closs share for the Beats. When Harry experiences the thrill of discovering a hardcover first edition of “On the Road,” readers, too, share in that moment of triumph. And when Harry and Jay witness Ginsberg in person for the first time, readers also bask in the presence of a great poetic mind.

In “Beatitude,” Closs expertly straddles the line between fiction and nonfiction, capturing the essence and spirit of a Kerouac novel. For those seeking a heartfelt exploration of friendship and love, this book is a compelling choice. And for die-hard fans of the Beat Generation, “Beatitude” is a treasure trove, seamlessly blending fictional characters with the rich history and legacy of the Beats.