Profiling poet, essayist and environmental activist Gary Snyder, this documentary explores the Pulitzer Prize winner's role in bringing about many of the changes that have shaped modern American society, including the introduction of Zen Buddhism. The film consists primarily of a conversation between Snyder and fellow poet and novelist Jim Harrison as they hike the California coast. Archival footage and commentary help paint a vivid portrait.
In the mountains and monasteries of China, four translators and writers recount the life and work of Tang dynasty hermit poet Han Shan (Cold Mountain).
Traces the Beats from Allen Ginsberg and Jack Kerouac's meeting in 1944 at Columbia University to the deaths of Ginsberg and William S. Burroughs in 1997. Three actors provide dramatic interpretations of the work of these three writers, and the film chronicles their friendships, their arrival into American consciousness, their travels, frequent parodies, Kerouac's death, and Ginsberg's politicization. Their movement connects with bebop, John Cage's music, abstract expressionism, and living theater. In recent interviews, Ginsberg, Burroughs, Kesey, Ferlinghetti, Mailer, Jerry Garcia, Tom Hayden, Gary Snyder, Ed Sanders, and others measure the Beats' meaning and impact.
By browsing this website, you accept our cookies policy.