In 'Lila,' Robert Pirsig embarks on a philosophical journey through the lens of a boat trip on the river, where he encounters a vibrant and enigmatic woman named Lila. As he struggles with the complexities of her unpredictable personality, his reflections dive deep into the nature of quality and the essence of existence. This exploration intertwines metaphysics with the beauty of life’s chaos, challenging readers to rethink their understanding of values and meaning. The narrative oscillates between personal introspection and broader philosophical dialogues, inviting intrigue at every turn. How do we define quality in our lives, and what does it mean to truly understand ourselves through the wildness of others?
By Robert Pirsig
Published: 1992
"The real tragedy is that we can only live in one moment at a time."
The author of Zen and the Art of Motorcycle Maintenance examines life's essential issues as he recounts the journey down the Hudson River in a sailboat of his philosopher-narrator Phaedrus.
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“The real tragedy is that we can only live in one moment at a time.”
Lila
By Robert Pirsig
Discover a world of knowledge through our extensive collection of book summaries.
Robert Pirsig was an American writer and philosopher best known for his influential works "Zen and the Art of Motorcycle Maintenance" and "Lila: An Inquiry into Morals." Born on September 6, 1928, Pirsig's writing is characterized by its philosophical exploration of quality, combining narrative with deep intellectual inquiry. "Zen and the Art of Motorcycle Maintenance," published in 1974, blends a narrative of a motorcycle road trip with reflections on values and the nature of quality, resonating with readers and becoming a classic. Pirsig's unique style merges personal experience with philosophical discourse, making complex ideas accessible to a broad audience. He continued to explore these themes throughout his career, cementing his legacy as a significant figure in American literature and philosophy.
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