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James Hilton’s imaginative LostHorizon is not only a tale of a lost world, it is also a philosophical questioning of how life should be lived. In the midst of war, British diplomat Hugh Conway is fleeing Afghanistan when his plane crashes in the Himalayas. Conway and his fellow survivors are rescued and led to the hidden paradise of Shangri-La, where the residents live seemingly immortal lives in peace.
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Clik here to view.Throughout the novel, the residents of Shangri-La emphasize the importance of moderation. The monks in the lamasery practice a religion that is a mix of Christianity and Buddhism. Their philosophy of everything in moderation is the secret to immortality in Shangri-La. Although their lifestyle is clearly desirable,, some newcomers are incapable of understanding it. As the goal of Shangri-La is to reach a mental peak, the Western newcomers have difficulty identifying with a goal that does not require physical action. But while the dogma that the residents of Shangri-La live by is certainly commendable, their living arrangements are in direct contrast with the philosophy of moderation.
Their lives, while peaceful in actions and mindset, are populated with the conveniences of modern life, including heating, grandiose bathrooms, a library, and lavish musical instruments. These luxuries are provided through an endless gold supply in the valley. Because they are provided with unlimited comforts, they are not burdened with the troubles that the rest of society faces. Living without conventional worries, they are able to focus on leading contemplative lives. The fantasy of their lifestyle is even more apparent when it is revealed that once a person leaves Shangri-La, his or her immortality is compromised and they quickly progress in age. The contrast between Shangri-La and the rest of the world prompts us to question which way of life is more righteous, especially given the consequences inherent in each.
