This first show introduces the program and provides details about how the book was launched and became a big hit. It also goes into some detail about the use of Electro Convulsive Therapy (ECT) the use of which began in the 1930’s. In 1962, Robert Pirsig involuntarily experienced ECT. The show ends with Robert’s release from the mental hospital and his discovery of boxes of notes written by the person he was before ECT had fouled his memory.