# The Pursuit of Joy in Bashan and I

> Theme guide for Bashan and I by Thomas Mann.

The narrative emphasizes the intrinsic value of the hunt and daily rituals for their own sake, rather than for practical outcomes, celebrating pure, purposeless joy and the simple pleasures of companionship and movement.

## Where it surfaces

- [How We Acquired Bashan](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/bashan_and_i_se/chapters/ii-how-we-acquired-bashan): The family's hope for joy from the dog, Anastasia's wish for him to have a 'cosy berth,' and the eventual satisfaction of a healthy companion reflect the pursuit of happiness through animal companionship.
- [The Chase](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/bashan_and_i_se/chapters/v-the-chase): Both Bashan and the narrator find joy in the chase itself, independent of any practical outcome, highlighting the intrinsic pleasure of the activity.

## Links

- HTML: https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/bashan_and_i_se/themes/the_pursuit_of_joy
- Themes index: https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/bashan_and_i_se/themes