In 'Zen and the art of Motorcycle maintenance', Robert Pirsig introduced the notion of 'undefined' quality. In Lila, he sets out to develop a system of thought around this quality that he calls the 'Metaphysics of Quality' (MoQ).
The book is subtitled 'an inquiry into morals'. Very early in the book, Pirsig equates morality with quality. Though he maintains that quality is not anything definable, reality can be understood as 'patterns of value (or quality)'. The fundamental division of world into static and dynamic patterns of quality is the basis of most of the discussions in the book. There are reflections on the phenomenon of celebrity, insanity and mysticism, random access method of storing ideas on slips of paper, the New York City, Hollywood — The writing is lucid, witty, humorous and persuasive. Pirsig takes the reader along with him on a journey of thought that is breathtaking and exhilarating. Protagonist is Phaedrus again, not on a motorcycle this time, but on a boat down the Hudson river; and his companion is sassy, sexually aggressive Lila.
Anyone with a strong background in Philosophy would like to pick his metaphysics to pieces. But this book is sure to set you thinking - put your mind on fire, provide enough pabulum for days...months.
This book is easier to follow than "Zen...’. I do not think that 'Zen and the...' is a prerequisite, but is definitely recommended as a background reading.
What stayed with you?
A line that lingered, a feeling, a disagreement. Great comments are as valuable as the original piece.