by Neil Young
First published 2023
Bob Young first encounters Moe "Pipeline Moe" Norman in the early 1960s. The Canadian professional golfer strikes the ball like no one else in the world. Young becomes fascinated by Norman's unusual mechanics and begins following him between Canada and Florida. For over forty years, Young observes the eccentric golfer at clinics and tournaments. At one clinic, former USPGA teacher of the year Craig Shankland asks Norman what it feels like to hit perfect shots. Norman pauses before the crowd of 300 people. "You will never know," he says with a grin. Young watches these moments and searches for the connection between Norman's physical technique and the mental side of ball striking. He wants to understand how Norman assembles the mental energy needed for each shot. The decades of observation lead Young toward a discovery about the metaphysical aspects of golf that changes how he sees the game.
Genres: psychology, sports, non-fiction, biography-memoir
Vibes: intimate, thought-provoking
Tropes: character-study, mentor-mentee
Setting: Canada, Florida
Period: 1960s, 1960s-2000s
208 pages · Paperback · Savio Republic