Jonathan Livingston
Seagull is a marvelous work of high
imagination, experience and realization. The author, Richard Bach, who was a
pilot, developed a new perception of life when he looked at this world from
greater heights during the course of his flights. This book seems to be a rendering
of his experiences which he expresses through a seagull, Jonathan. Drawing the
story from the high-flying and straight-diving seagulls, he builds the plot
around Jonathan who was innovative and loved novelties in life. On account of
his individualism, he hurts the inflated egos and rigidities of his fellow
seagulls. They scorn his new
ideas and try to subordinate him. In the course of
his distinct way of life, Jonathan had defied many established norms of his society.
His suggestions were rejected and he was condemned by his community. When he
persisted in his activities, he was punished with social ostracism and left
alone to die or repent for his blasphemy. Jonathan was full of sorrow but he
did not compromise as he valued the mission of his life. He kept his spirit
alive and enjoyed the freedom from control and restraint. He freely experimented
with great ideas and daily tried new
methods to dive and
catch the prey. After
strenuous efforts, he was able to master the art of
diving and capturing prey
from deep waters. The law-abiding members of the seagull
society watched with
disbelief how Jonathan has devised new ways to catch more food by straight diving.
The story of his success reaches the leaders who now regretted their decision
and felt the need of Jonathan’s methods for their own survival. Finally, the
entire seagull society recognized Jonathan’s mastery and welcomed him back in
the society. Jonathan is a spark that departed from tradition and ignited the
whole world.
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