The influential writer who chronicled the lives of the Beat Generation is Jack Kerouac. His groundbreaking novel "On the Road," published in 1957, captures the spirit of the Beat movement, emphasizing themes of spontaneity, freedom, and a quest for meaning. Kerouac's unique writing style, characterized by its stream-of-consciousness approach, reflects the improvisational and experimental nature of the era. His works resonated with many post-war youth and continue to influence literature and culture, symbolizing a rebellion against the constraints of mainstream society and offering a voice for countercultural movements.