The Author of ‘Zen and The Art of Motorcycle Maintenance’ Dies at 88

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http://www.cnn.com/2017/04/24/us/robert-m-pirsig-death-obit/index.html

These rugged individualists from Maine, where my dad grew up and where I spent many summers, relentlessly believe in themselves.

This author was turned down by 121 publishers before making publisher 122 rich beyond belief. Reminds me of the record company executive who confidently declared to Elvis that his voice was “so bad, Mr. Presley, you will never sell a record”. Or the recording company who advised John Lennon that the Beatles would never make it because “the days of guitar bands are over”.

Mr. Pirsig wrote a truly groundbreaking book. I have read many times since 1974, and find something new and delicious every time.

Reminds me to follow my heart. And to carefully evaluate for myself what others sometimes forcefully, but wrongly, state to be truth.