Give It A Name

Cafe Society
1

I’m currently reading I Never Met A Story I Didn’t Like by Todd Snider. He’s a folk singer that I’ve enjoyed for two decades at this point. The book is a collection of stories from his life, a lot about the music industry (not surprisingly.)

Part of what I enjoy about the stories is the vagabond lifestyle it describes. I’ve enjoyed other works with this theme. Got me to wondering if there is a name for such a genre, and what are some examples of books, movies, etc., that would fit in that genre.

The points that stand out to me:
[ul]
[li] The protagonist is outside the mainstream culture. This is usually by choice, and even when it’s not, the person is satisfied with his lot in life.[/li][li] The protagonist travels a lot. Hitchhiking is especially prominent.[/li][li] The protagonist earns a living outside of the 9 to 5, workaday life most of us know. They may be musicians, grifters, carnys, etc.[/li][/ul]

There are a few ther examples I can think of that have at least some of these themes. On The Road, but I can’t get into the Beats. The song King of the Road by Roger Miller. I think an argument could be made for The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn too. I also heard a radio report about Trimmigrants that fit the bill.

Is there a name for such a genre? Can you recommend any other titles?

2

Bohemian?

3

The Catcher in the Rye comes to mind. Maybe . . . books with themes of rebellion?

4

Picaresque?

5

Read that. Holden seemed kind of whiny to me. But good point.

6

You’re good Biffy, damn good. I’m about 98% certain I’ve heard the term before and it still never occurred to me. Thanks.

7

Adventures While Preaching the Gospel of Beauty, by Vachel Lindsay, may fall into the category you’re thinking of.

8

I thought this thread was going to be about one of my all-time favorite movies. Things to Do in Denver When You’re Dead.

Give it a name (Language warning.)

Bote drinks!