- Less a novel with plot, more one of characters, places, moods, surroundings, encounters
- Characters are described by Sal’s associations with where they are from
- In part one, Sal writes in very long sentences and paragraphs to convey the constant movement of the characters
- 150 word sentence describing Dean’s job working in a parking lot
- The original was typed on one long scroll of paper (either 50 ft or 120 ft long)
- In the Mill City section (part 1 ch. 11-12) the sentences and paragraphs are shorter and less descriptive
- Shifts in tone and syntax show Sal’s maturing
- Tone changes in Part 1 ch. 13-14 to a slower and sadder tone
- Bop Music- represents Sal’s spirit in that it is music with much improvisation and syncopated rhythm
- In part 2 when Sal and Dean are together the tone changes to more observational and distant
- Jazz represents Sal and Dean’s emotions: constantly fluctuating in tempo and tone.
- Part 4 syntax shift:
landscape descriptions now choppier and more concise.