Zen And The Art Of Motorcycle Maintenance Essay

This is a question that many of us could ask ourselves in many different circumstances, and the answer is that there is no quality without gumption, because they go hand and hand. Quality is “the standard of something as measured against other things of a similar kind; the degree of excellence of something” (MarriumWebster.com). Gumption is understanding that there are many solutions to one problem and picking the best one with confidence and courage. For example “Gumption” is having the confidence and courage to complete or achieve something and “Quality” is how one has obtained or achieved their goal and what the outcome of the end product looks like. In the book “Zen and the art of motorcycle maintenance” written by Robert M. Pirsig expresses what the true meaning of quality and gumption really is and what it is like to experience a moment of your life where nothing else matters, Also known as a Zen moment. Chris Pirsig is going to be …show more content…
“Pirsig’s willingness to embrace this aspect of the Ancient Greek outlook shows that he has moved well past Phaedrus petty, egotistical jealousies. The narrator’s guidance for motorcycle maintenance is designed as a practical, constructive approach that helps address the problems of contemporary life” (Robert Pirsig). The theme Zen ties both Quality and Gumption in together by explaining that most of the problems with life is that many don’t take the time out to appreciate the simple things, and become negative in the world. All three themes teach oneself to become a positive person that no matter what situation you are in that there is always a way through it. Staying positive or living in Zen is the best way to accomplish whatever it is that needs to be done with Quality and having the gumption or courage to do that all depends on one 's personality and or