I agree that Sal's character is directly related to Kerouac and that much of what Kerouac has experienced in his life is reflected in Sal. Spontaneity is a significant theme and is evident in the nature of the beats and hitchhiking. Therefore, Sal is most likely wishing that he will one day land in "heaven" and I agree with Liz in that there is a lot of hopefulness incorporated in the story.