In the 1980s, Nicholas, a 24-year-old diarist, grapples with his own struggles, including failed relationships and intellectual obsessions. His introspective journey takes a turn when he encounters individuals facing even greater hardships, prompting him to reflect on his own challenges in a new light. This exploration of human connection and resilience highlights the contrast between personal and collective suffering.
The story follows a recent graduate seeking to break free from his upbringing by immersing himself in a lifestyle filled with sex, drugs, and music as he joins a rock band. Influenced by the charismatic band leader, he navigates the complexities of a hippy community, while facing pressure from his parents, especially his mother, to pursue a conventional career. Amidst this chaos, he grapples with his idealistic yet tumultuous relationship with his girlfriend, highlighting themes of identity, rebellion, and the struggle between personal desires and familial expectations.
The book addresses the urgent need to realign the economic system with ecological and social integrity, challenging the prevailing belief in unlimited growth. It presents a call to action from Peter Brown, Geoffrey Carver, and their colleagues at the Quaker Institute for the Future, advocating for "right relationships" that promote mutual benefit and the common good. By integrating science, ethics, and spiritual teachings, the authors propose an alternative economic model aimed at fostering sustainability and moral integrity, echoing the Quaker commitment to justice and community.