Charlene Reviews: This Mobius Strip of Ifs by Mathias B. Freese

ISBN #: 978-1604947236

Page Count: 186

Copyright: February 15, 2012

Publisher: Wheatmark

Overview:

(Taken from back cover)

In this impressive and varied collection of creative essays, Mathias B. Freese jousts with American culture. A mixture of the author's reminiscences, insights, observations, and criticism, This Mobius Strips of Ifs examines the use and misuse of psychotherapy, childhood trauma, complicated family relationships, his frustration as a teacher, and the enduring value of tenaciously writing through it all.

Freese scathingly describes the conditioning society imposes upon artists and awakened souls. Whether writing about the spiritual teacher Krishnamurti, poet and novelist Nikos Kazantzakis, or film giants such as Orson Welles and Buster Keaton, the author skewers where he can and applauds those who refuse to compromise and conform. The profound visceral truths in this book will speak to anyone who endeavors to be completely alive and aware.

Charlene's Review:

When I received this book for review, my immediate thought was "what is a Mobius strip?" I googled it, and, well, it really didn't help. Fortunately, Freese explains it as "essentially a ribbon with a twist. A ... model used as a metaphor by physicists to describe why we ... are unable to perceive other dimensions outside of the single boundary of time." Freese uses it as a metaphor for possibilities outside our perception. He then, through numerous stories, shows us these possibilities.

At once thought-provoking, and at times, overwhelming, he takes us into situations and sees them in fresh ways. Freese shows us that we are a product of our environment, and that we must break free of them in order to grow, as well as to face life head-on. I didn't prescribe to every belief in his writings, but it was definitely worthy of thoughtful reading. This is a collection of stories that cannot be devoured quickly, and may need to be returned to over time to truly appreciate.