John Green narrates his view on the Indianapolis 500. He gives some of the history of the event, why people are so invested, and what a typical Indianapolis 500 looks like for him. Green begins the chapter by describing the cult following the race has, comparing it to the Vatican of Rome (169). Green then explains the development of cars and the raceway, and he ends the chapter with how important the race is to him.
My favorite part of the chapter and why I think Green wrote it is in the end. Green talks about how no one is able to see the entire track or even know who is leading, but the race allows him to meet with all of his friends. He says, “But it is always beautiful, riding and joking with my friends and their friends, many of whom I only see once a year” (172). The race gives Green and his friends a legitimate reason to meet and spend meaningful time with each other.
The Indianapolis 500 definitely helps John Green and society in general live a life of significance. The race is fueled by competition and competition breeds excellence. That competition has led to the development of many new technologies such as the rear view mirror. Green writes, “The winner of that first five hundred mile race was Ray Harroun , who was driving a car that featured his own invention, the rear-view mirror” (170). The race is what drove that invention, an invention that helps all of society daily. The second part of the chapter featuring his personal narrative on the race helps Green himself to live a life of significance. He spends time with his friends and continuing relationships that he's had for years. Green starts his day at 5:30 alone but by 6 he's out and about surrounded by his friends. That sense of community is always a good thing and being with others benefits our mental health. I give this chapter 5 stars as I thoroughly enjoyed reading it.