In part one of this series, we looked at a series of experiments that called into question the concept of free will. Here, we confront that idea more directly, and the exploration reveals a path whereby we might gain more control over our lives.
At the same time, the adventure with Billy continues as the boat breaks down and Douglas and I find ourselves marooned on a strange island in the middle of nowhere.
I'm the author of WOOL, a top 5 science fiction book on Amazon. I also wrote the Molly Fyde saga, a tale of a teenager from the 25th century who is repeatedly told that girls can't do certain things -- and then does them anyway.
A theme in my books is the celebration of overcoming odds and of not allowing the cruelty of the universe to change who you are in the process. Most of them are classified as science fiction, since they often take place in the future, but if you love great stories and memorable characters, you'll dig what you find here. I promise.
This is the second installment in Hugh Howey's eight-part Wayfinding series in which he talks about maritime experiences with a bit of amateur psychology thrown in for good measure.
Howey talks a lot about free will in this one, and I'm kind of all free-willed out after reading excellent books by Dan Barker and Sam Harrison the subject. It's a fascinating idea to take a deep dive into but I've already heard all I need to hear.
The parts dealing with Howey's boating adventures was fun. In this installment, Howey and his companion are forced to make an unexpected stop at the tropical Providencia Island (owned by Columbia) in the Caribbean to repair their boat's engine. They end up enjoying their stay very much and Howey comes up with a plan to become a citizen, only to be thwarted at the last minute. Good stuff. I would've loved to hear more about life and times on the island while they were there.
Another great entry into this short nonfiction series from Hugh Howey.
In this part, Hugh examines the concept of Free Will, and why he has come to believe it does not exist. It's a fascinating thought experiment from one of the most interesting and empathetic thinkers around.
Cool! Loved the adventures! And...the humor. Interpreted for me: Gain control in order to lose control and experience a life you may not have ever considered. What richness that can bring to your life if you appreciate every moment, every experience. Long ago, a college roommate and I traveled to France to live with families as au pairs and then travel together across Europe as two fair-haired 20 year-old young women. Life changing experience neither of us will ever forget and...we learned so much about people, life and ourselves. Totally relate to Hugh's experience and learnings however I didn't run around asking "Veux-tu m'epouser?"
A neat perspective, but a bit too much emphasis on the argument of free will, almost bordering on metaphysical preaching. I don't mind the argument, but it didn't necessarily belong as a foundational piece since it isn't an integral proof or even supporting evidence of that "human condition we all have that will try it's damndest to stunt your long term happiness". I felt this was a pretty solid core message with a great anecdotal story with vivid imagery. Basically Hugh is the man. Love his writing and appreciate what he's trying to do here, but the whole free will discussion made this chapter a bit of a rough ride
Hugh Howey's Wayfinding series isn't his highest seller, which in my opinion is a loss to every reader who enjoys this author. It is in this series that you get to know the author on a deeper level. Hugh shares his innermost thoughts of his introspective journey as he sails around the world. I recommend that you read the entire series.
We often look at what Hugh shares online and think it's all fun and games. The Wayfinding series, shares the reality of sailing and the daily struggles one goes through physically and emotionally. It is in his journey around the world, that Hugh gives you access to his fears, insecurities and struggles. He is known for showing the world who he is, Wayfinding takes that concept and expands introspectively.
Some of his philosophies may challenge you to think about your own. Whether you agree with him or not, isn't what's important. It's all about embracing the journey that he invites you to participate in.
Wayfinding Part 1: Rats and Rafts Wayfinding Part 2: Hell and Heaven Wayfinding Part 3: Hot & Cold Wayfinding Part 4: Old World & New Wayfinding Part 5: Consciousness and Subconsciousness Wayfinding Part 6: Highs and Lows Wayfinding Part 7: In-Grouping and Out-Grouping Wayfinding - Food and Fitness
Thank you Hugh for letting us be a part of your travels around the world. Your willingness to share personal insight and struggles in your Wayfinding journey helps to give hope in overcoming the storms of life, when the waves comes crashing down around you.
While I enjoyed reading this series, I would thoroughly enjoy having this series undergo a rewrite with retrospective thoughts as you conclude your travels.
How can a man go from science fiction to spirituality without batting an eyelash? I don't know, but I'm surely going to keep reading to find out. Many things in this book resonate with me, and it's funny that I'm seeing someone else ponder free will but come up with a conclusion. I suspect this series will be just what I need.
Able to read this in less than an hour. Also was under a $1 to buy. Enjoy reading these short installments about sailing and his insights on life. Thanks again Hugh.
So in this chapter of the book Hugh discusses free will. I didn't find this section to be as engaging as the previous or as the following chapter. It's still good information, and sort of essential to read for the parts to come, but it just wasn't as fun as the others.
Worthwhile art will provoke conversation with your inner muse as will good writing. Hugh Howey's adventure cajoles you into your own inner adventure. How can you not like that? Thoughtful and provoking. I really like his work.
These are not complicated ideas that are presented in this series, but when think about it life is really not that complex. I have gained more control with this thinking. I have found the holes in my own ship by telling myself that I'm sinking.
I'm digging this series. The first book had me intrigued and I'm still not sure I agree with everything he is saying, but I'm withholding judgment and trying it on. Oh, and his stories are awesome. Wish I lived this life!
More repetitive and didn't have me convinced with his free will theory. Left out a lot that could have been included in a discussion on free will and had a narrow idea of it in the long run. The story of his travels was great though
The continuing discussion of free will is intriguing. Hugh's real life adventures, though, are better than fiction. For this installment, at least, I enjoyed reading the second part better.
The Wayfinding series is Hugh Howey's foray into non-fiction via brief expositions on the human experience and Wayfinding or, as Howey defines it, "being aware of our environment and our responses to outside stimuli."
He writes in a way that is clear and accessible to many, beginning each (thus far) part of the Wayfinding Series with discussions on human behavior and Psychological research and phenomena. He works his way from there into stories of his own life and his own struggles with or understanding of these phenomena he has already discussed. Howey's writing is well researched, thought out, and thought provoking.
Part 2 involves discussions of free will, paradox, and Howey's experience on Isla Providencia after a storm forces a boat he was traveling on off of its path in his mid 20s.