How does Sal Paradise’s view of Dean Moriarty change during On the Road?

In On the Road, Sal Paradise’s perception of Dean Moriarty undergoes a significant shift as the narrative progresses. Initially, Sal is captivated by Dean, viewing him as an archetypal figure who embodies "IT"—a state of heightened experience, vitality, and intense presence that Sal deeply admires. For Sal, Dean represents the "mad ones" who are "mad to live" and "mad to talk," serving as a charismatic guide through a life of nonconformity, jazz, and endless movement.12

However, as the novel unfolds, this idealized view is tempered by reality. The narrative acknowledges the limitations of its own vision, and Dean’s gradual decline reveals him to be an increasingly absurd and unlikely hero for Sal to follow. Ultimately, the progression of their journey forces Sal to contemplate the complex implications of their shared rejection of conformity, leading him to a more mature reflection on his experiences and the true nature of Dean’s role in his life.23