This is most likely the best book I have ever read. I first tried reading it in 2012 and failed miserably in gaining momentum, I re-read the book in 2017 and 2020 during the pandemic. I still re-read parts that I enjoy today, there is a lot of investing-related wisdom (although it's got nothing to do with investing). Robert Persig takes us on an extraordinary voyage of self-discovery, and philosophy through the pursuit of excellence. It was an enquiry into values and how he saw the world. Robert embarks on a bike journey with his son and narrates his thoughts along the way. He challenges the reader's perception of the world and weaves together the teachings of Zen Buddhism and the Western way of thinking, motorcycle maintenance, and the human quest for meaning. He was obsessed with the idea of quality long before quality became a buzzword.

Book Summary:

• Philosophical Motorcycle Journey:
  The book takes readers on a philosophical motorcycle journey, intertwining Zen Buddhism, Western culture and the detailed craft of motorcycle maintenance. His pursuit of quality and meaning in life is a common theme in this book.
  
• Dichotomy of Classical and Romantic Thought:
  Persig explores the conflict between classical and romantic modes of thought, challenging readers to reconsider their values and perceptions of quality. Depending on what lens one sees the world will dictate one's reality.
  
• Zen Teachings on Mindfulness:
  The teachings of Zen Buddhism emphasise being present in the moment, fostering mindfulness, and appreciating the interconnectedness of all things. People, systems, and the world around us all have these common themes.
  
• Personal Exploration and Self-Discovery:
  The narrative is a deeply personal exploration of the author's struggle with sanity and his quest for self-discovery, offering profound insights into the human condition.
  
• Harmonising Reason and Intuition:
  Persig encourages finding a harmonious integration of reason and intuition, urging readers to balance analytical thinking with instinctive understanding.

Lessons Learnt:

• Embrace the Journey:
  The book teaches us to focus on the process rather than fixating solely on the end goal. In investing, this means appreciating the journey of research, analysis, and decision-making, rather than solely chasing short-term financial outcomes. The way Persig sees the component parts of the motorcycle is truly incredible. Very close to nuances we see when investing in quality businesses.
  
• Seek a Balance between Reason and Intuition:
  Persig explores the interplay between rational thinking and intuitive understanding. Similarly, investors blend analytical reasoning with instinctive insights when making investment decisions, striking a balance between data-driven analysis and nuanced thinking that comes with experience and drives the investment process.
  
• Value Quality:
  The concept of quality permeates throughout the book, emphasising its significance in all aspects of life. Similarly, investors should prioritise quality investments and focus on long-term value rather than short-term gains, seeking out companies with strong fundamentals and sustainable growth prospects. It's a reminder that every industry yearns for quality, but executing with quality is a rather different story. It is tough to sustain if it doesn't run through the veins in the first place.
  
• Cultivate Mindfulness:
  The practice of mindfulness is central to the book's philosophy, urging us to be present and aware in all aspects of life. In our personal lives, this means our family and children. How do we define the idea of quality of time? In investing, this means making thoughtful decisions based on current market conditions and long-term objectives, rather than reacting impulsively to short-term fluctuations. The fundamental ideas are all connected and we can learn a lot.
  
• Embrace Change and Adaptability:
  Persig's journey underscores the transformative power of change and adaptation. We should remain flexible, open to new ideas, and willing to adjust our views, ensuring resilience and long-term success in an ever-changing financial landscape. This is pretty much the same as being intellectually honest with ourselves.

The lessons are endless. Quality underscores the focus on long-term value creation and the detailed nuances give a greater appreciation for the interconnected systems that drive our world and the financial markets. The book was bittersweet towards the end. To this day, I'm still trying to figure out whether Persig was a good father or not. Children yearn for attention and Persign never gave him much on this journey, this bugs me, but his thinking is incredible and taught me a lot. If anyone has read this book and has some answers I'd love to hear your thoughts.