The setting for "Damnation Alley" by Roger Zelazny is a shattered America about 40 years after a nuclear war. A few communities on the east coast and in Calfornia survive, but the vast interior is a wasteland of vicious motorcycle gangs, monsters, and radiation called "Damnation Alley"
The aftermath of the nuclear war created violent storms that make communication and normal travel between the coasts impossible. An outbreak of plague in Boston compels the city's government to send several armored "cars" to California in a plea for medicine to treat the plague.
In response, California plans to send three of the armored cars filled with medicine cross-country to Boston. One of the drivers recruited for the task is former Hells Angel and convicted killer Hell Tanner. (yes, that's his real name). In exchange for a complete pardon, Tanner agrees to drive.
As a character, Hell Tanner is a mixture of sudden violence and brutality, kindness and mercy and deep philosophical insights. During the long trek through Damnation Alley, Tanner transforms from an amoral thug into a man capable of great heroism.
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