This is a fictional book but it has been regarded as a masterpiece and is often used in college and high schools as part of the curriculum. I've quoted many parts of this book not to be proposed as truth but, instead, as an idea or an interpretation. Since we humans have the ability to create our dreams there is no reason we cannot attempt to create our future. the basis for the book is how we are living in contrast to the laws of nature and cannot continue to do so in the long term. So I've put a few audio tracks from this book on my website in case anyone was interested in listening. It is very interesting to think about the ideas presented. This by far not the complete book. Just a few passages in 6min segments. Files are 15mb so expect a min or two for download. Evolutionary/Creation mythology For the other parts (track 8-11) go here Laws and Civilizational flight (Part1 track 11, part 2 track1) Living in the hands of the gods and ending creation? (part 1, part 2, part 3, part 4) Or just go to the main directory and check em out in order. This is way to confusing. lol Ishmael Directory From wikipedia:
Hey F8L, Thanks for trying to get the word out about this book. I have bought and gifted ~50 copies in the last 8 years or so because I feel as if this novel should be required reading for the entire human population. "A life-altering experience" is how most the donees of the book describe it. It is THAT important, and any self-respecting Priuschat member should have it in their library (unless they have given it away). Well, that and the Tao Te Ching. Prius Owners: Read it! There will be a test, and we cannot afford to fail. Plus: It features a 'talking' gorilla!!!!
Thanks Patrick. It is indeed that kind of book but it is difficult to get people to read books so I got a copy of the cd version in hopes some would simply listen to at least a couple parts and get hooked. lol I have the tao te ching as interpreted by Stephen Mitchell on cd too.
<div class='quotetop'>QUOTE(F8L @ May 15 2007, 11:49 PM) [snapback]443076[/snapback]</div> Yah, I keep one copy of that version on hand for gifting also. I get that translation because it comes in miniature. I can give it to people, and then they can carry it around comfortably. I keep the Victor Mair version for personal reading. On topic: I just realized that the UTD library does NOT stock Ishmael. I cannot believe it! I'll be filling out a purchase request for that one as soon as I can find my ID.
LOL I've gifted 8 copies of Ishmael so far. Most people I know don't read much so I'm going to try with the CDs. I know it's wrong but it is within the spirit of Ishmael is it not? If you need an audio copy let me know. At first I didn't like it because I just finished a high dollar production (The Omnivore's Dilemma ~ Michael Pollan) and this one sounded weak but now I really enjoy it and I've listened to the whole book ohh around 15 times now since there are only 3 cds compared to the 13cd for the Michael Pollan book or the 8 cds I'm listening to from Jared Diamonds "Collapse". Haha Did you know that the founder and CEO of Interface Inc. (an extremely large flooring and carpet company) changed his company around and started incorporating sustainability into their program after reading "Ishmael", "Silent Spring" and, "The Ecology of Commerce"? The companies profits rose, their stocks went up, and everyone is living happily every after now that most of their carpet is recyclable and they are starting to use biopolymers instead of petrochemicals. Amazing what a good book can do for ya!
F8L, thanks for the links. I'll try out a couple of audio clips, but suspect I already agree with the author's ideas, based on your posts over the last couple of years.
<div class='quotetop'>QUOTE(EricGo @ May 17 2007, 07:45 AM) [snapback]444140[/snapback]</div> Thank you. Even though you'll likely agree it is kind of neat to hear the authors perspectives. I'm sorry they take so long to load.