The Celestine Prophecy by James Redfield Bantam $136 THIS fictional story, which has been a major hit in the United States, focuses on a man at the crossroads of his life. A former counsellor, the narrator of the tale, is taking time off to re-think his life. He hears about the existence of an ancient manuscript in Peru which gives people nine key insights into their existence with the aim of bringing about a new world order. At the end of the book we learn about a tenth insight, paving the way for a sequel.
Propelled by curiosity and a desire for illumination, the ex-counsellor seeks them out, only to discover that the church and government are conspiring to prevent their dissemination in fear that they will bring chaos where now there is relative order in society. They, of course, are also seeking to protect their own vested interests.
Undeterred, he ploughs on with the help of others of like mind, avidly devouring insight after insight, dodging government agents sent out to stop him and gradually acquiring an understanding of how the world could become a better place for all.
This affords the basis for a good adventure story and if it were treasure that was being hunted, the author would have fewer problems carrying the reader with him.
However, what we are being asked to take on board is the revelation of a series of perceptions about life which grow increasingly obscure and philosophically doubtful. Not only that, they are wrapped up in a narrative remarkably devoid of good description and character development.
If it were not for the exotic location and the sense of urgency imparted by the hunt for the documents, we could very well be left with an arid account of one man's search for, and understanding of, spiritual enlightenment.