Jonathan Livingston Seagull: A satire on modern society

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Parinatha

24 February, 2011

Jonathan Livingston Seagull is a critique of our society and the barriers in front of people who want to pursue excellence. It urges readers to explore one's interests even if a million people don't agree.

JONATHAN LIVINGSTON Seagull, is a simply written book, and is extremely inspirational and enriching. Bach’s descriptions comes alive through his words bringing vivid images in the reader’s mind. Reading Seagull is a journey in itself as it not only narrates a breathtaking story but also draws parallels to the society we live in and teaches us lessons for life.

The book tells us the story of Jonathan Livingston Seagull, a rare gull, who is passionate for a perfect flight rather than being interested in fighting for food. This idea has been talked of in three different chapters. The first talks of Jonathan’s struggle to fly and be different from the flock. The main theme running through Part 1 is determination. Despite repeated failures Jonathan practices and does not give up his passion for flying. Though, he was ostracised by the other gulls for his pursuit of excellence, he did not give up his dream to fly.

The second part is about passion. The unending passion to fly only rewards him and teaches him more. He learns the tricks of the trade and meets others similar to him. In this section there are various ideas that are spiritual and almost so supernatural that there is a strong reference to the concept of salvation. The idea that perfection leads one to God is stressed upon to convey to the reader the meaning of life.

The third part is about service. This chapter emphasises on the notion that it is not just enough to earn knowledge but it is important to pass on the knowledge to others and help them grow. Jonathan in this phase takes on the role of a teacher and breaks the shackles of society teaching many gulls the art of gliding without the fear of society.

This book is thus a critique of our society and the barriers in front of people, who want to pursue excellence. It almost urges the reader to explore one’s interest and follow the heart even if stopped by a million people. The book in a very subtle yet very effective manner teaches one to be passionate, determined and confident. The timelessness of the book and the simple writing is extremely captivating.

Bach’s descriptions involve the reader so deeply in the story that each time Jonathan swoops down it thrills the reader. The book achieves its purpose as the reader feels one with Jonathan. Every glide brings a smile and every fall twitches the nerve. A short story, well spaced out and very engaging, Jonathan Livingston Seagull by the end of it is like the phoenix, who rises from just a bone to beautiful glowing feathers.

Jonathan is path breaking in many ways and is a true wonder to read as it not just describes the life of a unique gull but conveys a lot by drawing parallels to our society and life.