What is the author's tone in Meetings with Remarkable Men by G. I. Gurdjieff?

Gurdjieff's tone is dismissing of the modern world, even to the point of disgust. He reveres the ancient ways of humankind, going all the way back to the beginning of civilization. His approach appeals to those who are unsatisfied with modern life and yearn for something more substantial and meaningful. This is probably done on purpose as part of his sales scheme for the Institute for the Harmonious Development of Man.