What was the main concern of the beatniks in the 1950s and early 1960s?

The beatniks, a group of American writers and artists in the 1950s and early 1960s, primarily focused on social criticism and artistic expression. They sought to challenge the norms of mainstream American culture, which they perceived as conformist and materialistic. The beatniks were known for their embrace of spontaneity, personal freedom, and exploration of nonconformist lifestyles, often expressed through their literature, poetry, and art. Through works that celebrated individuality and critiqued societal values, they influenced the broader cultural movements that followed, including the counterculture of the 1960s.

Their artistic pursuits were often characterized by themes of existentialism, nontraditional lifestyles, and a rejection of the moral constraints of their time. This focus on personal and artistic expression was a defining trait of the beatniks, setting them apart from groups that were more focused on direct political actions or advocacy for established social issues.