by Robert M. Pirsig
Published
Not found
Pages
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Language
English
Publisher
BBC Audio
Audiobook
$17.79
Audio CD
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An odyssey into life’s challenging questions during an unforgettable summer motorcycle trip Acclaimed as one of the most exciting books in the history of American letters, Robert M. Pirsig’s Zen and the Art of Motorcycle Maintenance became an instant bestseller upon its publication in 1974. A powerful examination of how we live, as well as a breath-taking meditation on how to live better, it tells the epic story of a father and son’s motorcycle trip across America’s Northwest in the 1960s.
Pirsig’s modern classic transformed a generation and continues to inspire millions of readers today. Dramatised for radio for the first time by Peter Flannery ( Our Friends in the North, George Gently, The Devil’s Whore ), this fantastic full-cast production stars James Purefoy ( Rome, Injustice, Ironclad ) and adds a new and original dimension to an iconic work. Following a father and his young son on their cross-country summer adventure from Minnesota to California, it is a story of love, fear, growth, discovery and acceptance.
Both personal and philosophical, Zen and the Art of Motorcycle Maintenance is also a compelling study of relationships, values, enlightenment and meaning. The maintenance of the motorcycle throughout the journey illustrates how to unify the cold, rational realm of technology with the warm, imaginative realm of artistry. Resonating with the confusions and the wonders of existence, the narrator wrestles with some of the most important philosophical questions of the 20th century.
His need to also reconcile his past and present selves drives him and his son forward, to a point where all is either lost or won on the Chautauqua spiritual journey. This audio edition includes a bonus 10 minutes of material that was not broadcast on the radio. NB: the recording contains strong language.
Production credits Author: Robert M. Pirsig Dramatist: Peter Flannery Original music: Jon Nicholls Sound Design: Eloise Whitmore Producer: Melanie Harris A Sparklab production for BBC Radio 4.
Embark on a remarkable journey with Zen and the Art of Motorcycle Maintenance, where the realms of philosophy and adventure intertwine. This dramatised interpretation breathes life into the author's introspective voyage, offering listeners a profound exploration of the human psyche and the meaning of quality. As the protagonist ventures across America's landscapes, he engages in a captivating discourse on values, consciousness, and the intricate balance between life's romantic and rational facets, inviting the audience into a world of reflection and insight.
Cultivates a deeper appreciation for balancing rationality and emotion in everyday life. Embarks on a philosophical exploration of quality self-identity and personal growth. Redefines the relationship between humanity technology and the pursuit of happiness.
Engage in a compelling narrative that seamlessly blends philosophical inquiry with a timeless road trip adventure. As the story unfolds the protagonist's journey on a motorcycle becomes a metaphor for the inner journey of self-discovery and enlightenment. Accompanied by his son this journey across America is not just physical but a dive into the depths of the mind.
This dramatised version captures the essence of the original work enhancing the vivid explorations of thoughts and ideas. The dialogues and reflections challenge conventional perceptions urging listeners to confront their understanding of quality and how it intersects with the mundane aspects of life. The combination of rich narrative and philosophical debate makes this a timeless exploration of existence and identity.
With each mile traveled the narrative intricately weaves moments of introspection with the exhilarating freedom of the open road. The motorbike becomes more than a mode of transport; it symbolizes the journey through life's complexities a tangible connection to the philosophical path the protagonist navigates. Listeners are encouraged to question societal norms and the concepts of technology and progress.
This work presents a philosophical examination of values through the lens of everyday experiences. The narrative delves into how we engage with technology as tools that should align with human values rather than control them. The protagonist's journey reflects our modern struggles and desires offering timeless insights into achieving balance and understanding.
By merging narrative artistry with profound philosophical discourse this dramatised edition encourages a heightened awareness of one's journey through life. It remains an invitation to explore deeper personal truths wisdom and connections that transcend superficial existence urging listeners to question engage and discover.
This book intertwines the thrill of an adventurous road trip with profound philosophical insights creating a unique narrative that captivates both the heart and mind It stands as a fusion of exploration and contemplation. Its dramatised format adds depth to the philosophical discourses making abstract ideas more tangible and engaging The voices breathe life into Pirsig's reflections enhancing the listener's understanding and emotional connection to the narrative. The exploration of quality as a philosophical concept approached through the lens of motorcycle maintenance offers a novel perspective on everyday life This fusion of the mundane with the profound distinguishes this narrative as a thought-provoking journey.
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Based on 63 ratings
So, crossing midlife, I've become more introspective and interested in philosophy. Being a Karateka, interested in pursuing Zen, and someone with mechanical aptitude, I decided that I should finally check out this renowned book for its application of transcendent philosophy to something mundane like maintenance of a machine. Also being someone who has more time to walk or drive and listen than to sit and read, I purchased the CD copy of this book. I did *not* realize that I'd be getting a dramatization or that there would be almost no Zen or Motorcycle Maintenance in this audio recording. As others have said in their reviews - this is very short. I think I completed it in only a couple.. maybe three... hours. I was left with a feeling of WTF? Why do people go on and on about this book? I should go back to Alan Watts and the I-Ching. I did a quick check with Wikipedia to make sure that this was actually the right plot for the much-lauded book. I was disappointed to learn that I did indeed have the right book with he right plot. So did all the people and authors, and movies, and TV shows that mention this book get it wrong? Well, not entirely. After reading many reviews I've now realized that this is greatly diminished version of the book. I have to assume that all of the Zen and Motorcycle Maintenance that I expected to find was cut from the audio version to fit a schedule. I *still* haven't had time to read the paper book, but now I know that this wasn't the version to start with.
Had I been asked whether or not I thought that Robert M. Pirsig's seminal, and partially auto-biographical, 70s novel "
It was an interesting perspective on life and how one lives. It took a bit of getting used to the multi voice and sound effects when you are used to one reader, just reading the book. It kind of reminded me of a radio program of yesteryear. Worth the read, it makes you think.
I got part way through this CD and I started thinking of all the stuff, good and bad, that I wanted to say on amazon about this novel on CD. Then I realized that this was a heavily abridged if attractive multi-voice production, and my review wouldn't make much sense. I'll save my extended review for an unabridged CD version, if such exists. As it is, this is one really pricey selection for maybe 2 to 3 hours of listening. Heavy spoiler alert going forward. So what to say here? I don't know how much this CD is going to make sense to somebody who hasn't read the book. It's a nice reminder to those of us who read the actual, considerably lengthier novel 30+ years ago. Part mystery novel about the author - what did he do to get his brain zapped so long ago - how did he recover from that - what happened to his family in the meantime? Part story of father/son issues. Part philosophical discussion (the part I like least). On the one hand I'd like to say that this man's past sacrificed for his message to the rest of us. But a larger part of me says this guy is bonkers regardless of the message. Maybe both are right. I find a lot of the philosophical stuff mumbo jumbo. I find a lot else objectionable in the actual book, but it is memorable and thought-provoking just the same. I had no trouble remembering specific incidents from this book which I read 1978-ish in confirming how abridged this CD was, which says something about something. So at the minimum it's memorable.
The book requires two reads. after the first read you can go back and with the knowledge gained from the back half of the book more completely soak in all of the knowledge from the first half. It's amazing how on a second read, all of the details stand out as having a significance well beyond their letters and words. BUT! Be warned: The CD currently listed here is NOT an audio book. It has a run time of just over an hour! It was just some episode on a talk radio show about the book. Steer clear from the single CD "Audio Book" currently listed as one of the options on the product page. The book is the real deal.