Rub Out the Words By William S. Burroughs

Rub Out the Words is a collection of letters written by William S. Burroughs between 1959 and 1974, offering an intimate glimpse into the mind of one of the most radical and influential writers of the 20th century. Edited by Bill Morgan, this volume follows Burroughs during the most transformative years of his career, as he moved from the groundbreaking Naked Lunch era to the development of his cut-up technique and his growing influence on literature, art, and culture.

In these letters, Burroughs discusses his literary experiments, his travels across Europe and North Africa, his encounters with fellow Beat writers like Allen Ginsberg and Jack Kerouac, and his evolving ideas on politics, drugs, sexuality, and control. His sharp wit, dark humor, and keen observations make this collection an essential read for fans of the Beat Generation and experimental literature.

Why Read This Book

• Provides a firsthand look at Burroughs' creative process and personal philosophy.
• Chronicles his literary evolution, including the development of his cut-up technique.
• Offers insights into his relationships with fellow Beat writers and countercultural figures.
• A must-read for those interested in avant-garde literature, the Beat Generation, and Burroughs' influence on modern art and music.
• A raw, unfiltered portrait of a literary icon who reshaped the boundaries of fiction.

About the Author

William S. Burroughs (1914–1997) was an American writer, cultural icon, and one of the most innovative literary figures of the 20th century. His novels, including Naked Lunch, Junky, and The Soft Machine, revolutionized modern literature through experimental techniques and fearless explorations of taboo subjects. His influence extends beyond literature into music, film, and visual art, making him a lasting figure in countercultural history.