Free Air is a 1919 novel written by Sinclair Lewis. From a critical perspective, Free Air is consistent with Sinclair Lewis's lean towards egalitarian politics, which he displays in his other works (most notably in It Can't Happen Here). Examples of his politics in Free Air are found in Lewis's emphasis on the heroic role played by the book's protagonist, Milt Dagget, a working class everyman type. Conversely, Lewis presents nearly every upper-class character in Claire Boltwood's world (including her railroad-mogul father) as snobby elitists. The story also champions the democratic nature of the automobile versus the more aristocratic railroad travel. Lewis's emphasis on the freedom which automobiles would eventually give the working and middle classes bolsters the egalitarian, democratic aesthetic. Free Air is one of the first novels about the road trip, a subject around which the Beats (most notably Jack Kerouac) would build a cult following in the mid-20th century.
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Sinclair Lewis (1885-1951) was an influential American novelist, playwright, and social critic, known for his sharp and insightful commentary on American society. He was born in Sauk Centre, Minnesota, and his experiences growing up in the Midwest deeply influenced his writing. Lewis gained prominence for his ability to blend social satire with realistic and romantic elements, creating vivid portrayals of American life and character. His work often explores themes of individualism, societal expectations, and the identity crisis faced by individuals navigating a rapidly changing society. Some of his notable works are Main Street (1920): A critique of small-town life and its narrow-mindedness, focusing on the struggles of a progressive woman trying to reform her community. Babbitt (1922): A satirical look at the life of a middle-class businessman, exposing the conformism and materialism of American society. Arrowsmith (1925): A novel about a scientist's quest for truth and personal integrity in the face of professional and personal challenges. Elmer Gantry (1927): A biting satire of religious hypocrisy, featuring a charismatic but unscrupulous preacher. Lewis's work is characterized by its social critique and humor, and he is celebrated for his ability to address complex social and moral issues with both depth and accessibility. His novels remain influential for their exploration of American culture and their challenge to societal norms.
