In this now famous book, Pirsig explores what he calls "the metaphysics of quality", describing a journey across the United States, punctuated by numerous philosophical discussions (many of them on epistemology and the philosophy of science) which the author refers to as chautauquas (the title is an incongruous play on the title of the earlier Eugen Herrigel book, Zen in the Art of Archery). The two riders represent different ways of approaching reality: one is of a gestalt/romantic (Zen) nature, the other concentrates upon details/mechanics (motorcycle maintenance).

The Metaphysics of Quality is a philosophy, a theory about reality, asking ontological and moral questions. Much of this has to do with a non-intellectualizing, non-conceptualizing, Zen-like direct viewing of the universe. Yet Pirsig departs from Eastern thinking by arguing that reason and logic are just as important in seeking understanding. He explains that, despite its title, "it should in no way be associated with that great body of factual information relating to orthodox Zen Buddhist practice. It's not very factual on motorcycles, either."

Many of the themes were anticipated in Nevil Shute's 1951 novel Round the Bend.

This is one my personal "must-reads", essentially because it enjoyed massive popularity at a time when people were seriously attempting to find a way of self-understanding, a quest which seems to be sadly lacking in today's, ironically narcissistic, culture.

WILD RELEASE NOTES:

The Official Book Crossing Zone (OBCZ) is just at the top of the stairs.

Picked this up at the BC meet today in Starbucks, Cheltenham.

WILD RELEASE NOTES:

To be released from the Fourth Plinth in Trafalgar Square as part of Antony Gormley's One and Other project.