With no belief system (philosophical, religious or otherwise) the characters in this novel flounder about helplessly looking for personal gratification, and come up empty. Convinced that they are, (or should be), superior to everyone else, they cannot find happiness or fulfillment in "ordinary life". When they see (as they inevitably must) that they are human and have flaws, they cannot face them. Instead they are plunged into self-loathing and despair, and the resulting behavior makes the situation much worse. These characters need to grow up, look outside of themselves and try to give to others, but they are too neurotic and self-absorbed. Thus, I was left feeling numb and sad. The writing is excellent, and rings true because so many in our society (both today, and in the 1950's when this was written) share this unfortunate perspective. Thought provoking reading...

I am halfway through this book and plan to start right over again when I'm finished. I think that this is one of the most fascinating things I have ever read. BUT, if you asked me what it is about I'd have a hard time explaining it. Yes, it is about how chemicals are seeping into the ecosystem, and how we might view plant medicine as an alternative etc, but it's about so much more than that. It's scientific and shamanistic at the same time, merging two ways of thinking into one. Really I should say, it explains one type of epistemology in the language of another. I really like it and it's changing my way of looking at the life around me. Also, my perception of God/spirituality etc. Check it out. PS. Mr Buhner thanks for such an interesting and thought provoking read! You are so right! KM