In 1967, Guy Debord published 'The Society of the Spectacle', a critical examination of contemporary society's relationship with images and commodities. Debord argued that authentic social life had been replaced by passive consumption, where lived experiences became mere representations. His work became foundational for the Situationist movement, influencing cultural and political thought regarding consumerism and media.

Inspired the adversarial, anti-spectacular tactics of avant-garde poetry, encouraging the use of détournement (hijacking media) and the critique of consumerist language. Debord's ideas resonated with poets like Allen Ginsberg and the Language poets, who sought to challenge conventional forms and societal norms.