This novel is a human lesson on how to perceive life. If every human being took time to think that every single act they commit or word that they speak has a purpose and a consequence, how much better off would society be? While the story seemed to drag a bit as we reached the climactic ending (a climax which was such despite the fact that the reader knows it is coming), Irving threw in enough surprises, interspersed with a touch of humor, to keep you interested. The story-telling here is exceptional!