Ken Kesey’s Last Go Round is a novel that explores the themes of identity, freedom, and the American West. Through the use of symbolism and allegory, Kesey weaves a complex and intricate tale that delves into the heart of what it means to be human. In this literary analysis, we will examine the themes and symbolism present in Last Go Round, and explore how they contribute to the novel’s overall message.
Ken Kesey: Life and Works
Ken Kesey was an American author and countercultural figure who rose to fame in the 1960s. He is best known for his novel One Flew Over the Cuckoo’s Nest, which was later adapted into a successful film. Kesey’s work often explored themes of individualism, rebellion, and the search for meaning in a society that he saw as increasingly conformist and oppressive. His last novel, Last Go Round, co-written with Ken Babbs, is a prime example of this exploration of themes. The novel is set in the early 20th century and tells the story of a rodeo in Oregon. Through the characters and events of the novel, Kesey and Babbs explore the themes of individualism, the search for identity, and the struggle against conformity. The novel is also rich in symbolism, with the rodeo itself serving as a metaphor for the struggle of the individual against the forces of society. In this article, we will explore the themes and symbolism of Last Go Round in depth, examining how Kesey and Babbs use the rodeo as a lens through which to view the human experience.
Last Go Round: A Brief Overview
Last Go Round is a novel written by Ken Kesey and Ken Babbs, published in 1994. The book is a fictionalized account of the 1911 Pendleton Round-Up, a rodeo held annually in Pendleton, Oregon. The novel is a unique blend of historical fiction, western, and magical realism. It tells the story of a group of cowboys, Native Americans, and other characters who come together to compete in the rodeo. The novel explores themes of identity, tradition, and the clash between modernity and tradition. It also uses symbolism to convey deeper meanings about the characters and their experiences. Overall, Last Go Round is a fascinating and thought-provoking novel that offers a unique perspective on the American West and its cultural heritage.
Historical and Cultural Context
Ken Kesey’s Last Go Round is a novel that is deeply rooted in the historical and cultural context of the American West. Set in the early 20th century, the novel explores the lives of cowboys and rodeo performers in Montana, as they navigate the changing landscape of the West. The novel is also steeped in the cultural traditions of the West, including the rodeo, which is a central theme of the book. Kesey’s portrayal of the rodeo is both celebratory and critical, highlighting the thrill and danger of the sport, as well as the exploitation of animals and the commercialization of the event. Through his vivid descriptions of the landscape, the characters, and the events of the rodeo, Kesey captures the essence of the American West and the complex cultural and historical forces that shaped it.
Characters and Their Roles
The characters in Ken Kesey’s Last Go Round play a crucial role in the development of the novel’s themes and symbolism. The two main characters, Frank and Charley, represent the clash between traditional Western values and the emerging modern world. Frank embodies the old ways of the West, with his love for rodeo and his adherence to the cowboy code of honor. Charley, on the other hand, is a Harvard-educated intellectual who represents the new ideas and values of the East.
Other characters, such as the Native American rodeo performer, Jackson Sundown, and the wealthy Easterner, Ivy League, also play important roles in the novel’s exploration of themes such as identity, cultural heritage, and the changing American landscape. Through their interactions and conflicts, Kesey highlights the tension between different cultures and ways of life in the early 20th century.
Overall, the characters in Last Go Round serve as vehicles for Kesey’s exploration of complex themes and ideas. Their roles and interactions provide insight into the changing American identity and the struggle to reconcile traditional values with modernity.
The Theme of the Death of the Old West
The theme of the death of the Old West is a prevalent one in Ken Kesey’s Last Go Round. The novel takes place in 1911, during the last days of the frontier era, and follows the story of a group of cowboys and Native Americans as they participate in a rodeo in Pendleton, Oregon. Throughout the novel, Kesey explores the idea that the Old West is dying, and that the traditional way of life for cowboys and Native Americans is coming to an end. This theme is evident in the way that the characters in the novel struggle to come to terms with the changes that are taking place around them. For example, some of the cowboys are resistant to the idea of using automobiles instead of horses, while some of the Native Americans are struggling to maintain their cultural traditions in the face of assimilation. Overall, the theme of the death of the Old West is a poignant one in Last Go Round, and serves as a reminder of the importance of preserving our cultural heritage.
The Theme of the Search for Identity
The theme of the search for identity is a prevalent one in Ken Kesey’s Last Go Round. The characters in the novel are all searching for their place in the world and trying to figure out who they are. This theme is particularly evident in the character of Pickett, who is struggling to find his identity as a Native American. He feels torn between his traditional Native American culture and the modern world he is living in. Pickett’s search for identity is also tied to his search for a sense of belonging. He feels like he doesn’t fit in anywhere and is constantly searching for a place where he can feel at home. This theme is also present in the character of Jackson Sundown, who is trying to come to terms with his aging body and his place in the world as a former rodeo champion. Overall, the theme of the search for identity is a powerful one in Last Go Round and adds depth and complexity to the novel.
The Theme of the American Dream
The American Dream is a concept that has been explored in literature for centuries. It is the idea that anyone, regardless of their background, can achieve success and prosperity through hard work and determination. In Ken Kesey’s Last Go Round, the theme of the American Dream is prevalent throughout the novel. The characters are all striving for something, whether it be fame, fortune, or simply a better life. However, the novel also explores the darker side of the American Dream, highlighting the sacrifices and compromises that must be made in order to achieve success. Through the characters’ struggles and triumphs, Kesey presents a complex and nuanced portrayal of the American Dream, one that is both inspiring and cautionary.
The Symbolism of the Rodeo
The rodeo is more than just a sport or entertainment; it is a symbol of the American West and its values. In Ken Kesey’s Last Go Round, the rodeo serves as a metaphor for the struggle between tradition and modernity. The cowboys and cowgirls represent the old ways of the West, while the businessmen and investors represent the new, commercialized West. The rodeo itself is a battleground where these two forces clash.
The animals in the rodeo also hold symbolic significance. The bucking broncos and bulls represent the untamed, wild spirit of the West, while the rodeo clowns symbolize the need for humor and lightheartedness in the face of danger and adversity. The lasso, a tool used by cowboys to capture and control animals, represents the power of human will over nature.
Furthermore, the rodeo serves as a symbol of community and camaraderie. The cowboys and cowgirls come together to compete, but also to support and encourage each other. The rodeo is a place where people from all walks of life can come together and celebrate their shared love of the West and its traditions.
Overall, the rodeo is a powerful symbol in Last Go Round, representing the struggle between tradition and modernity, the untamed spirit of the West, the power of human will over nature, and the importance of community and camaraderie.
The Symbolism of the Wild West Shows
The Wild West Shows of the late 19th and early 20th centuries were more than just entertainment for audiences. They were also a reflection of the cultural and societal values of the time. In Ken Kesey’s Last Go Round, the symbolism of the Wild West Shows is explored in depth. The shows were a way for Americans to celebrate their history and heritage, but they also perpetuated harmful stereotypes and myths about Native Americans and the West. The cowboys and Indians portrayed in the shows were often exaggerated and romanticized, creating a distorted view of the reality of life in the West. However, the shows also represented a sense of adventure and freedom that was appealing to many Americans. The Wild West Shows were a way for people to escape the constraints of modern society and experience a simpler, more rugged way of life. In Last Go Round, Kesey uses the Wild West Shows as a metaphor for the clash between tradition and modernity, and the struggle to preserve a way of life that is rapidly disappearing. The symbolism of the Wild West Shows is a powerful reminder of the complex and often contradictory nature of American culture and history.
The Symbolism of the Buffalo
The buffalo, also known as the American bison, is a powerful symbol in Ken Kesey’s Last Go Round. The animal represents the strength and resilience of the American West, as well as the Native American culture that once thrived in the region. The buffalo also serves as a reminder of the devastating impact of westward expansion and the near-extinction of the species.
Throughout the novel, the buffalo is a recurring motif, appearing in various forms such as artwork, clothing, and even as a live animal at a rodeo. The characters in the novel, particularly the Native American ones, hold the buffalo in high regard and view it as a sacred animal.
One of the most significant scenes involving the buffalo is when a group of Native American men perform a traditional buffalo dance. The dance is a spiritual ritual that honors the buffalo and asks for its forgiveness for the harm that has been done to its species. This scene highlights the deep connection between the Native American culture and the buffalo, as well as the importance of respecting and preserving the natural world.
Overall, the symbolism of the buffalo in Last Go Round serves as a reminder of the complex history and cultural significance of the American West. It also emphasizes the need for environmental conservation and the importance of respecting the traditions and beliefs of indigenous peoples.
The Role of Gender and Sexuality
In Ken Kesey’s Last Go Round, the role of gender and sexuality is a prominent theme that is explored throughout the novel. The novel is set in the early 20th century, a time when traditional gender roles and expectations were deeply ingrained in society. However, the characters in the novel challenge these norms and explore their own sexuality and gender identities in various ways.
One of the most notable examples of this is the character of Marie, who is a skilled horse rider and roper. Despite being a woman, she is able to compete with men in rodeo events and is even able to beat them. This challenges the traditional gender roles of the time, which dictated that women should not engage in such physically demanding activities.
Another example is the character of Pickett, who is a homosexual man. His sexuality is not explicitly stated in the novel, but it is heavily implied through his interactions with other male characters. This challenges the societal norms of the time, which viewed homosexuality as a deviant behavior.
Overall, the role of gender and sexuality in Last Go Round serves to highlight the ways in which societal norms can be restrictive and limiting. The characters in the novel challenge these norms and explore their own identities, ultimately leading to a greater sense of freedom and self-expression.
The Use of Language and Narrative Style
Ken Kesey’s Last Go Round is a novel that explores themes of identity, masculinity, and the American West. One of the most striking aspects of the novel is Kesey’s use of language and narrative style. Throughout the novel, Kesey employs a unique blend of colloquial language, historical references, and poetic imagery to create a vivid and immersive reading experience.
One of the most notable features of Kesey’s language is his use of dialect. The novel is set in the late 1800s, and Kesey captures the speech patterns and slang of the time period with remarkable accuracy. This adds an authentic and immersive quality to the novel, as readers are transported back in time and can almost hear the characters speaking in their distinctive voices.
Kesey also uses historical references to enrich the narrative. The novel is set against the backdrop of the famous 1911 Pendleton Round-Up, and Kesey weaves in details about the event and the surrounding culture to create a sense of time and place. Additionally, he incorporates references to famous figures of the time period, such as Buffalo Bill and Annie Oakley, which adds depth and richness to the story.
Finally, Kesey’s use of poetic imagery is another notable aspect of his language and narrative style. He often employs metaphors and similes to describe the landscape and characters, creating a vivid and sensory experience for the reader. For example, he describes a character’s eyes as “two blue marbles in a bowl of milk,” which not only creates a striking visual image but also conveys a sense of innocence and vulnerability.
Overall, Kesey’s use of language and narrative style in Last Go Round is a key element of the novel’s success. By blending dialect, historical references, and poetic imagery, he creates a rich and immersive reading experience that transports readers back in time and brings the story to life.
The Influence of Kesey’s Personal Beliefs
Ken Kesey’s personal beliefs had a significant influence on his writing, and this is evident in his novel Last Go Round. Kesey was a countercultural figure who rejected mainstream values and embraced alternative lifestyles. He was a proponent of psychedelic drugs and believed in the power of communal living. These beliefs are reflected in the novel, which explores themes of individualism, freedom, and the search for meaning in a rapidly changing world. The characters in Last Go Round are rebels who reject the constraints of society and seek to create their own reality. They are inspired by the ideals of the Wild West and the spirit of the frontier, which they see as a symbol of freedom and possibility. Kesey’s personal beliefs also inform the novel’s use of symbolism, which is rich and complex. The rodeo, for example, is a metaphor for the struggle of the individual against the forces of conformity and oppression. The characters’ quest for self-discovery and self-expression is mirrored in the rodeo’s emphasis on individual skill and performance. Overall, Kesey’s personal beliefs are an integral part of Last Go Round, and they give the novel its distinctive voice and vision.
Comparisons to Other Works of Western Literature
When examining Ken Kesey’s Last Go Round, it is impossible not to draw comparisons to other works of Western literature. The novel’s themes of individualism, freedom, and the struggle against societal norms are reminiscent of classic Western novels such as Cormac McCarthy’s Blood Meridian and Jack Kerouac’s On the Road. However, Kesey’s unique blend of humor and surrealism sets Last Go Round apart from these works and establishes it as a truly original contribution to the Western literary canon. Additionally, the novel’s use of Native American symbolism and mythology adds another layer of complexity to the story and sets it apart from other Western novels that often overlook the perspectives and experiences of Indigenous peoples. Overall, Last Go Round stands out as a unique and thought-provoking addition to the Western literary tradition.
Reception and Legacy of Last Go Round
The reception and legacy of Ken Kesey’s Last Go Round has been mixed since its publication in 1994. While some critics praised the novel for its vivid portrayal of the American West and its exploration of themes such as identity and cultural conflict, others criticized it for its lack of depth and reliance on stereotypes. Despite these mixed reviews, Last Go Round has continued to be read and studied by scholars and readers alike, and its themes and symbolism have been analyzed in depth. The novel’s depiction of the rodeo world and its exploration of the tensions between Native Americans and white settlers have been particularly noteworthy, and have contributed to its enduring legacy as a work of Western literature.
Analysis of Kesey’s Writing Techniques
Ken Kesey’s Last Go Round is a masterpiece that showcases the author’s exceptional writing techniques. Kesey’s use of symbolism, imagery, and characterization is remarkable, and it is evident throughout the novel. One of the most notable writing techniques that Kesey employs is the use of symbolism. The author uses various symbols to represent different themes and ideas in the novel. For instance, the rodeo arena symbolizes the American West and the cowboy culture. The characters’ costumes and equipment also represent their personalities and roles in the rodeo. Kesey’s use of symbolism adds depth and meaning to the novel, making it more engaging and thought-provoking. Additionally, Kesey’s use of imagery is also noteworthy. The author uses vivid descriptions to create a visual image of the rodeo and its surroundings. The reader can almost feel the dust, smell the sweat, and hear the cheers of the crowd. Kesey’s use of imagery makes the novel more immersive, allowing the reader to experience the rodeo firsthand. Finally, Kesey’s characterization is also exceptional. The author creates well-rounded characters with distinct personalities, motivations, and flaws. The characters’ interactions and conflicts drive the plot forward, making the novel more engaging and realistic. Overall, Kesey’s writing techniques are masterful, and they contribute to the novel’s success as a literary work.
Exploration of Critical Interpretations
One critical interpretation of Ken Kesey’s Last Go Round is that it is a commentary on the decline of the American West and the loss of traditional values. The novel is set in the early 20th century, a time when the West was rapidly changing due to industrialization and modernization. The characters in the novel, particularly the cowboys, are struggling to adapt to these changes and maintain their way of life.
Another interpretation is that the novel is a celebration of individualism and non-conformity. The characters in the novel are all unique and unconventional in their own ways, and they reject societal norms and expectations. This can be seen in the character of Pickett, who refuses to conform to the rigid rules of the rodeo and instead creates his own style of riding.
Overall, Last Go Round is a complex and multi-layered novel that can be interpreted in a variety of ways. By exploring these critical interpretations, readers can gain a deeper understanding of the themes and symbolism in the novel and appreciate the richness of Kesey’s writing.
The Significance of Last Go Round in American Literature
Last Go Round, a novel by Ken Kesey and Ken Babbs, is a significant work in American literature due to its exploration of themes and symbolism. The novel is set in the early 20th century and tells the story of the last great rodeo in Pendleton, Oregon. The novel is a celebration of the American West and its culture, but it also explores deeper themes such as the clash between tradition and modernity, the struggle for identity, and the search for meaning in life. The novel’s use of symbolism is also noteworthy, as it employs various symbols to convey its themes and ideas. Overall, Last Go Round is a powerful work of literature that continues to resonate with readers today.