One of the most important and influential books written in the past half-century Robert M. Pirsig's Zen and the Art of Motorcycle Maintenance is a powerful moving and penetrating examination of how we live . . . and a breathtaking meditation on how to live better. Here is the book that transformed a generation: an unforgettable narration of a summer motorcycle trip across America's Northwest undertaken by a father and his young son. A story of love and fear -- of growth discovery and acceptance -- that becomes a profound personal and philosophical odyssey into life's fundamental questions this uniquely exhilarating modern classic is both touching and transcendent resonant with the myriad confusions of existence . . . and the small essential triumphs that propel us forward.

Phaedrus our narrator takes a present-tense cross-country motorcycle trip with his son during which the maintenance of the motorcycle becomes an illustration of how we can unify the cold?? rational realm of technology with the warm?? imaginative realm of artistry. As "Zen?? the trick is to become one with the activity?? to engage in it fully?? to see and appreciate all details--be it hiking in the woods?? penning an e