The Demise of Kerouac

Whiskey and malt liquor
at 11 a.m.

or mountain climbing
and spiritual revelations;

maybe both,
or maybe
one won
over the other
one.

Blood poured
from his mouth
faster than
his rising fame
and new label - 

Father of the Beat movement:

A label and a fame he equally despised.

"Something good will come
of all things yet."

But blood won't clot
with a damaged liver.

"Live, travel, adventure, bless,
and don't be sorry."

...and don't forget
to drink yourself into the grave.

Your lifetime of scenery
won't
can't
save your cirrhosis
from a lifetime
of tequila margaritas.

here

there

in the sky

on the road;

"Stella,
I'm bleeding."