The classic approach vs. the romantic approach
The Sutherlands represent a romantic approach. The dehumanized world repulses them; they don’t want to know anything about the machines, technology and the way it all works. The pair is even ready to put up with discomfort if it allows them not to deal with technology. The narrator can understand the nature of his friends’ dislike of machines, but he doesn’t share their point of view. The rapid expansion of technology does threat our old ideas and beliefs, but he accepts it easily. Pirsig suggests finding inner balance and achieve peace of mind. His approach is classic.
Freedom
People love talking about freedom. Some say that to be free is the biggest happiness. Others say that freedom is the fundamental right. But what does this concept mean? Are we really free? How can one achieve it when there are so many obligations and expectations? Pirsig’s answer is rather simple, he says that one has to establish inner calm. We have to learn how to navigate in this world without losing ourselves. This is a rather challenging task that requires lots of self-analysis and patience. For instance, the narrator’s freedom is to be able to choose where to be, where to go, and what to think about.
Self-acceptance
Self-acceptance is probably the most important lifesaving skill that is needed to be mastered if a person wants to live a happy life. The narrator is remarkably smart, his knowledge of philosophy, technology, and religion is impressive, but it doesn’t mean that the narrator doesn’t doubt himself. However, he manages to reconcile with his old-self, accept the fact that he has changed. Self-acceptance helps him to move on and reach inner balance. One might assume that that this 17-day journey is his way to get back to his old self.
