What better place to find examples of drug addiction than classic literature? Given the fact that drug use has been going on for over 10,000 years, it is no wonder that many famous works from the United States, Britain, and other countries are riddled with innuendos or direct references to acid trips, stoner dreams, and toking. In fact, many of these drugs laid the foundations for stoner culture and Beat culture, during which some truly iconic street poetry was created. Even famous Victorian-era novelists (who engaged in much more solicitous behavior than drugs) wrote some of their best works while under the influence of opium and snuff (cocaine). Here is a closer look at two famous authors who wrote some of their best works while on drugs.
Phillip K. Dick
If you do not know the name of this author, then you will be familiar with a movie that is based on one of his most renowned works. Considered a king of science fiction, Phillip K. Dick is most famous for writing Do Androids Dream of Electric Sheep? (the story that ultimately inspired Ridley Scott’s cyberpunk masterpiece Blade Runner), VALIS, The Man in the High Castle, and much more. However, fans of Dick will know there are two sides to him: pre-LSD and post-LSD. During his career, the beloved author opened his mind to this hallucinogen and began writing his dark, edgy, and beautiful books. In a way, you can see the influence of the drug on his introspective works.
Hunter S. Thompson
Founder of the gonzo journalism movement, Hunter S. Thompson was an experimental writer in every meaning of the word, and his extensive experimentation with drugs has earned him a legendary status in popular culture. Even more interesting, researchers found Thompson had created a daily schedule for his intake of orange juice, cocaine, Halcion, and hallucinogens. His most famous (and equally infamous) work is Fear and Loathing in Las Vegas, ultimately spawning the cult classic film starring Johnny Depp and Benicio Del Toro. More works on Thompson’s bibliography include Hell’s Angels, The Strange and Terrible Saga of the Outlaw Motorcycle Gangs, The Curse of Lono, and more.
Always remember that mind-altering drugs do not have control over your life. You do. Are you suffering from a substance abuse disorder or addiction? Do you have a friend or family member suffering from one or more of these debilitating illnesses? If you do, get in touch with Asana Recovery today. Our counselors and healthcare experts are ready to walk you through every step of the detox and withdrawal process and rehabilitation and guide you towards living a happier, healthier, and freer lifestyle. While the road to recovery might not be an easy road to travel, we promise to help you every step of the way. Take the first step to stay fit, healthy, and safe.
The time for you to take back control of your life is now. If you are interested in one of our residential treatment or supervised detoxification/withdrawal programs, we are ready and waiting to speak with you at your disclosure. Call Asana now at (949) 438-4504 to learn how to overcome your drug addiction and substance abuse troubles today.