Although I did not see this theatrical production, I have personally spoken with Richard Bach many times, I know a lot about the publication of his book and the making of the 1973 film, and I just want to answer the reviewer’s criticisms of the book. Obviously the book’s theme about freeing one’s mind is not going to work in every situation in life. My sympathies in regards to that horrible experience with the stepfather. But as for your example about how the themes of JLS wouldn’t work over in Ukraine: I know at least one Ukrainian who is both a big fan of the book and, also, angry and horrified at what the Russians are doing. The themes of the book won’t have an effect in those types of terrible situations. I don’t know any rational fan of JLS who would even assume that it would. The theme of the book is more about liberating one’s self from conformity and being your own individual. It’s as simple as that.
Has this message been abused sometimes? Undoubtedly, including by Richard Bach himself — which is a whole other story. I still would argue that the book’s simplicity is profoundly moving and inspirational, so long as you don’t interpret its message as the solution to every issue that comes your way.
Although I did not see this theatrical production, I have personally spoken with Richard Bach many times, I know a lot about the publication of his book and the making of the 1973 film, and I just want to answer the reviewer’s criticisms of the book. Obviously the book’s theme about freeing one’s mind is not going to work in every situation in life. My sympathies in regards to that horrible experience with the stepfather. But as for your example about how the themes of JLS wouldn’t work over in Ukraine: I know at least one Ukrainian who is both a big fan of the book and, also, angry and horrified at what the Russians are doing. The themes of the book won’t have an effect in those types of terrible situations. I don’t know any rational fan of JLS who would even assume that it would. The theme of the book is more about liberating one’s self from conformity and being your own individual. It’s as simple as that.
Has this message been abused sometimes? Undoubtedly, including by Richard Bach himself — which is a whole other story. I still would argue that the book’s simplicity is profoundly moving and inspirational, so long as you don’t interpret its message as the solution to every issue that comes your way.