when I was in college everyone was ranting about robert persig's book zen and the art of motorcycle maintence. Being and english literature major, I could barely finish the books I had to read let alone something for pleasure. [sidebar: I'm sure that if I had the meds then, I would have been a better reader.]
I finished it finally a couple weeks ago. I'd have to say it is a good book, but being the critic I am, I have to give a fair review.
i'll start by pointing out a few things that irritated me. [WARNING: I'm really good at spoiling plots so excuse me.]
first, the whole referring to himself as the third person. I'd probably be ok if he didn't use that crazy name to do it. I mean comon, the book would have been just as good as if it had been written as though they were memories. It is a memoir right, hell even if it isn't true, itd be better.
Second is the whole basis for this trip is so he can write his "chataqua" and reminice about the time he went mad.
a third (i did say 3 right?), how can someone instantly recover like he does?
I didn't really get too much out of the relationship between the zen of maintence and the "chataqua" either. I'm just such a bastard for being this way about literature, but if there wern't critics, literatre would probably suck.
good things I liked. Did an ok job of describing obsession and demonstrating what can happen when taken too far. Also his expression in the writing is simple and easy to follow, even describing the mind of a far out genius.
Is it worth reading? Yes. Don't let my criticism imply that I didn't like the work. It is a great work.
[note: sorry for the punctuation in this post. I'm trying the new mobile post features. I can't believe how fast these kids type on those phone pads. just do some eavesdropping at the mall. I'm glad I have my treo.]
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