Last time I mentioned that the overarching message I took away from Zen was the fundamental role of what Robert Pirsig called "quality." And the book has been an inspiration in other ways as well. One of the fun little facts about this book comes from the Guinness Book of Records. According to Guinness, Zen and the Art of Motorcycle Maintenance holds the record as the bestselling novel rejected by the greatest number of potential publishers (121).
This is a great reminder of how important it is to stick to your beliefs and not let others persuade you otherwise. Of course this determination needs to be balanced with the resistance of using it as an excuse not to change or not to recognize when you’re wrong. But then life is really all about the art of balancing and the skill at constant course correction to stay on target.
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Hi Wayne,
I've read Pirsig's book twice. Although the "motorcycle" theme makes for an interesting backdrop to anyone inclined to two-wheel travel, the philosophy itself is an expression of understated wisdom.
http://motorcycle-intelligence.com/zen-art-motorcycle/33
Posted by: MCG | April 13, 2008 at 05:40 PM
Talk about persistence. Didn't read the book, but you have to have a zen attitude when riding. There is long periods of time when you are alone with your thoughts and totally aware of all your surroundings for the sake of your safety.
Posted by: Ajlouny | August 19, 2009 at 04:58 PM