Zen and Now: On the Trail | Mark Richardson

Zen and Now: On the Trail of Robert Pirsig and the Art of Motorcycle Maintenance

Extended Synopsis

Zen and Now is the compelling story of a story, tracing the iconic 1968 cross-country motorcycle trip that inspired Robert Pirsig's monumental classic, Zen and the Art of Motorcycle Maintenance: An Inquiry into Values. Since its original publication, Pirsig's groundbreaking work has touched whole generations of readers with its serious attempt to define “quality” in a modern world that often seems indifferent to the responsibilities that quality brings.

Journalist Mark Richardson expands upon that original transformative journey with a dedicated investigation of his own. Riding the exact same route, Richardson sets out to find the enigmatic author of Zen and the Art, seeking to ask him a few lingering questions and place his foundational book in a modern context. The resulting narrative manages to be both a gripping biography of Pirsig himself—uncovering an unknown life marked by genius, madness, profound tragedy, and eventual resolution—and a splendid, thoughtful meditation on creativity, problem-solving, and the delicate line between sanity and insanity.

Intended Audience

This fascinating investigative biography is highly recommended for the millions of fans of Robert Pirsig's original classic, enthusiasts of motorcycle culture and travel writing, and any reader interested in philosophy, mental health, and the deeply personal stories behind great American literature.

Author Biography

Mark Richardson is a seasoned journalist, editor, and dedicated motorcyclist. His deep appreciation for Robert Pirsig's literary contributions and his passion for the open road converged in this ambitious project, blending investigative journalism with personal travelogue to shed new light on a classic American text.

Accolades & Recognition

• A profound companion piece guaranteed to appeal to the over 5 million readers of Pirsig's original masterpiece.
• Serves as an accessible, engaging initiation to Pirsig’s complex philosophical theories for a whole new generation of readers.
• Praised as a splendid meditation on the nature of creativity, personal resilience, and the relentless pursuit of quality.

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