Explore the posthumous collection “On Quality: An Inquiry into Excellence” by Robert M. Pirsig, offering a rare glimpse into the mind behind *Zen and the Art of Motorcycle Maintenance*. Edited by his wife, Wendy K. Pirsig, this book reveals previously unpublished writings, letters, and notes, charting the evolution of Pirsig’s influential “Metaphysics of Quality.” Delve into Pirsig’s reflections on excellence, aesthetics, and ethics, exploring how his philosophy connects to Eastern thought and offers a unique path to personal enlightenment. This Mariner Books edition is perfect for Pirsig enthusiasts and those seeking profound philosophical insights.
On Quality: An Inquiry into Excellence: Unpublished and Selected Writings
32,78 $
In stock
Description
Featuring long-awaited selections from Robert M. Pirsig’s unpublished writings, from before and after Zen and the Art of Motorcycle Maintenance, an original collection illuminating the central theme of Pirsig’s thought: Quality
The ultimate goal in the pursuit of excellence is enlightenment.” Robert M. Pirsig, 1962
More than a decade before the release of the book that would make him famous, Robert M. Pirsig had already caught hold of the central theme that would animate Zen and the Art of Motorcycle Maintenance: Quality, a concept loosely likened to excellence, rightness, or fitness that Pirsig saw as kindred to the Buddhist ideas of dharma or the Tao. As he later wrote in Zen, Quality is the Buddha.
Though he was revered by fans who considered him a guru, the famously private Pirsig published only two books and consented to few interviews and almost no public appearances in later decades. Yet he wrote and thought almost continually, refining his Metaphysics of Quality until his death in 2017.
Now, for the first time, readers will be granted access to five decades of Pirsigs personal writings in this posthumous collection that illuminates the evolution of his thinking to an unprecedented degree. Skillfully edited and introduced by Wendy K. Pirsig, Roberts wife of four decades, the collection includes previously unpublished texts, speeches, letters, interviews, and private notes, as well as key excerpts from Zen and the Art of the Motorcycle Maintenance and his second book, Lila.
Since its publication in 1974, Zen and the Art of Motorcycle Maintenance has established itself as a modern classic of popular philosophy; selling millions of copies and inspiring a generation, while serving as a perennial touchstone for the generations that follow. On Quality is a remarkable contribution to our understanding of one of the most influential thinkers and writers of our time.
Dive deep into the mind of a philosophical icon with "On Quality: An Inquiry into Excellence: Unpublished and Selected Writings" by Robert M. Pirsig, expertly curated and introduced by his wife, Wendy K. Pirsig. This posthumous collection offers an unprecedented glimpse into the evolution of Pirsig's groundbreaking "Metaphysics of Quality," the core concept that propelled his seminal work, *Zen and the Art of Motorcycle Maintenance*, to international acclaim. For decades, Pirsig remained a figure of enigmatic brilliance, publishing only two books despite his relentless intellectual pursuits. Now, for the first time, readers can explore five decades of his personal writings, gaining a profound understanding of the ideas that shaped a generation. This invaluable collection features previously unpublished texts, speeches, letters, interviews, and private notes, alongside carefully selected excerpts from *Zen and the Art of Motorcycle Maintenance* and *Lila*. "On Quality" transcends a simple compilation; it's a journey through Pirsig's intellectual landscape, revealing the origins and nuances of his central concept: "Quality." This elusive notion, akin to "excellence," "rightness," or "fitness," resonated deeply with Buddhist philosophies of "dharma" and the "Tao." Pirsig himself equated "Quality" with "the Buddha," underscoring its fundamental role in achieving enlightenment. Wendy K. Pirsig's insightful editing provides crucial context, illuminating the connections between Pirsig's diverse writings and tracing the development of his philosophical framework over time. Readers will discover the seeds of *Zen and the Art of Motorcycle Maintenance* in his early reflections and witness the ongoing refinement of his ideas throughout his life. This book is more than just a companion to Pirsig's previous works; it is a standalone testament to his enduring legacy. Whether you're a long-time admirer of Pirsig's philosophical insights or a newcomer eager to explore the profound questions he posed, "On Quality" offers a transformative reading experience. It invites you to engage with Pirsig's mind, grapple with his challenging concepts, and ultimately, embark on your own inquiry into the nature of excellence and the meaning of a life well-lived. Published by Mariner Books, this hardcover edition is a significant contribution to contemporary philosophy and a must-have for anyone seeking to understand the enduring power of Robert M. Pirsig's ideas. Discover the heart of Pirsig's philosophy and unlock a deeper understanding of yourself and the world around you with "On Quality."
Additional information
| Authors | |
|---|---|
| Binding | |
| Condition | |
| ISBN-10 | 0063084643 |
| ISBN-13 | 9780063084643 |
| Language | |
| Pages | 192 |
| Publisher | |
| Year published | |
| Weight | 322 |
Related products
Heartstopper Volume Two
31,85 $-
The van
15,47 $
