The attempted spectroscopic observation of a quinone methide proposed to be an intermediate in the biosynthesis of neolignans is reported. The results afforded substantial indirect evidence for the formation of quinone methide 3. The synthesis of racemic bicyclo [3.2. lloctenedione 22, a natural product, is proposed to occur through a similar quinone methide intermediate. The synthesis of (&)-futoenone via a benzylic cation intermediate ...