Onward, At Last

The hidden cost of the American dream

Kevin Howard's book, Onward, At Last, presents itself as a compelling mirror to modern American society, revealing the deep-seated troubling issues underlying the pursuit of the American dream. Through a series of insightful essays, Howard dissects the paradoxes and dilemmas faced by individuals striving for success in a society increasingly defined by division, competition, and self-interest.

The journey of Howard himself, as depicted in his book, resonates with the narrative of transformation and self-discovery. From his early achievements and a successful banking career to a profound personal crisis at he neared the age of 40, Howard's story is a testament to the hidden costs of the much-coveted American dream. His eventual move towards a more introspective lifestyle, against the backdrop of the Pacific Northwest's serene nature, lays the foundation for the book’s central themes.

Critiques and analyses of Onward, At Last have highlighted its in-depth exploration of the root causes of American unhappiness, particularly focusing on how societal values like independence and self-interest, while driving economic growth, often impede genuine contentment and ecological sustainability. The book's structure, comprising 80 short but impactful essays, allows readers to engage with its content in a reflective manner, fostering personal introspection and societal critique.

Furthermore, Howard’s work is lauded for its bold interrogation of contemporary American values and its unflinching look at the disillusionment often accompanying it. The book serves as both a diagnosis of the ailments afflicting modern American society and a prescription for a more interconnected and empathetic way of life. It challenges readers to rethink their understanding of success, happiness, and communal living in the 21st century.

A recurring theme in Onward, At Last is the concept of “Universal Oneness” – an ideology advocating for a deeper understanding of our interconnectedness and interdependence. This idea, set against the backdrop of contemporary issues such as political divisiveness, economic inequality, and global pandemics, underscores the necessity for a shift in perspective from individualism to a more communal and empathetic worldview.

Critics have also noted the book's relevance to current educational and political discourse, suggesting that its insights could profoundly impact the next generation's understanding of economics, politics, and social responsibility. Howard's personal narrative, combined with his incisive analysis of societal trends, makes Onward, At Last a compelling read for anyone interested in understanding and addressing the challenges facing modern America.

In our podcast interview with Kevin Howard, we explore these multifaceted discussions, revealing how Onward, At Last not only critiques the American dream but also offers a hopeful vision for a more unified, compassionate future. Join us in this enlightening conversation as we uncover the transformative potential of embracing our collective humanity.