Comment on Gioia's Themes (Meagan Adler)

      I think that all of your possible themes are analytically intriguing, but I particularly like your first topic and think that it would create the strongest term paper.  The idea of individuality in relation to Sal and Dean’s common purpose is a significant idea that I believe Kerouac underscores throughout the novel.  Both Sal and Dean want to escape the societal institutions that pull them back and restrict the development of the individual.  They do not want to conform to society’s desires, but rather want to find who they are.  I think that out of the four, your fourth idea would probably be the hardest to write a term paper on because it would be difficult to find clear support.  I really like your ideas and think that your term paper will be very strong!