Lila: Robert M. Pirsig

This book isn't as universally attractive as "Zen and the art of motorcycle maintenance". It must be hard to follow up with another gem after creating a classic, but Lila offers so much to those who often think on a level that is so removed from our everyday existence. I love the journey in the boat as a metaphor for the parallel intellectual journey. I also like the way Pirsig endorses cultures that think differently. He examines and validates anthropological beliefs and ways of being with a kind of respectful curiosity. The presence of Lila forms a benchmark which reminds us of our humanity, beauty and fallibility. It also stops us from being superior and arrogant as we aspire to what he calls "High Valley Thinking". All in all, it gave me permission to believe that I don't have to conform to the cultural values of my peers that are so often skewed by materialism, consumerism, religion, the media et al. Evolution is possible if more of us can challenge our culture with the modesty and respect that Pirsig illustrates.

Yet another book I knew nothing about - the sequel to "Zen and the Art etc." that I read so long ago and which opened doors in my life. Beautiful, pristine hardback. Well worth the price, well packed and delivered on the dot. Thanks everyone.

Brilliant work absolute consistent author if its okay to state that. Hard to find any faults with which would only be misconceptions anyway. Beautifully readable.

An excellent sequel to his first, arguably better. Not a light bedtime read, but an insightful and philosophical study of different people and the journeys we take in life. I'd love to have a pint with this man.

I am sorry he has only written two books. What a talent. I can not recommend these highly enough !

Please read the prequel first

Excellent book. EFFECTIVE. Great value. It is a bit expensive but great value for the price. I highly recommend it.

Hell of a book, if you liked Zen you will probably find this less engrossing though - Pirsig acknowledges this himself but calls it 'the bright child'. I'm a fan of both and would recommend them in a heartbeat. Very glad I read them both!