Hi!
Your post is a spooky coincidence, and The Naked Lunch is the very reason I decided to look for a book forum.
I'm new to the whole Beat Generation of writers, but was inspired to read On The Road after a discussion with a friend about The Great Gatsby. That whole era of American history interests me, especially the social aspect. I was fascinated by the lifestyles of the Beat Generation, but after spending a long time in literary wilderness, I didn't think there was anybody to discuss the books or subject matter with, or that they were no longer relevant?
Anyway, I watched the film of the Naked Lunch last night, and it made me want to read it, to be able to explore the writing more. I agree that it will possibly be hard going, but I'm willing to give it a go.
Any recommendations of The Beat Generation would be greatly appreciated. When I first picked On The Road I struggled I'm afraid.
My current read is Great Apes by Will Self. Similar themes I suppose?