Zen And The Art Of Motorcycle Maintenance Characters
“Zen and the Art of Motorcycle Maintenance” is a philosophical novel written by Robert M. Pirsig. The book was published in 1974 and has since become a bestseller. The novel is a mix of fiction and autobiography, following the journey of a father and son as they ride a motorcycle from Minneapolis to San Francisco. Along the way, the main character, who is also the narrator, reflects on his past and discusses philosophical concepts. Here is a closer look at the main characters of the novel.
Robert Pirsig
Robert Pirsig is the author of “Zen and the Art of Motorcycle Maintenance.” He is also the main character and the narrator of the novel. The novel is semi-autobiographical, and Pirsig based the character on himself. Pirsig was born in Minneapolis in 1928 and grew up in the area. He was a philosopher and writer, and “Zen and the Art of Motorcycle Maintenance” was his first book.
John Sutherland
John Sutherland is the narrator’s friend and travel companion. He is also a mechanic and helps the narrator maintain the motorcycle throughout the journey. Sutherland is portrayed as a practical and down-to-earth character, in contrast to the narrator’s more philosophical and abstract nature. Sutherland is also a Vietnam veteran, and his experiences in the war are discussed in the novel.
Chris
Chris is the narrator’s son. He is eleven years old and is described as a typical pre-teen boy. Chris is interested in motorcycles and enjoys the trip with his father and Sutherland. Throughout the novel, the narrator reflects on his relationship with Chris and his own experiences as a father.
Sylvia
Sylvia is the narrator’s ex-wife and Chris’s mother. Although she does not appear in the novel, the narrator frequently reflects on his relationship with her and the breakdown of their marriage. Sylvia is portrayed as a more practical and realistic character, in contrast to the narrator’s more philosophical and abstract nature.
Conclusion
“Zen and the Art of Motorcycle Maintenance” is a philosophical novel that explores concepts such as quality, truth, and the nature of reality. The novel’s characters, particularly the narrator, provide a lens through which to view these concepts. The novel has become a classic and has influenced generations of readers and writers.