4.41k reviews for:

The Art of War

Sun Tzu

3.59 AVERAGE


a) what did I just read lol
b) why was I thinking the whole time if Cassian uses these tips and tricks for his army

There were sections of the books I enjoyed and others that were I sat in utter confusion.

The Art of War was worth a read, though it was not as profound as I thought it would have been given its reputation. Some of the textual elements caused me to stop and think deeply, while others largely just focused on... well... the literal art of war. As someone who does not have a huge fascination with military history, these sections were big misses. This said, I did enjoy reading the secondary text where many other scholars added their thoughts to Master Sun's treatise.

I honestly don't understand how people can get anything out of this for their daily lives. Unless you are planning to lead armies to war, it feels like a big stretch.

I only read it because it was a selection for the goodreads group "Everyone has read this but me". I have a goal to read at least one of their selections each month, and I've already read the other two.

good for strategies and tips but i do not give a damn about war.

“Conoce al enemigo, conocete a ti mismo y la victoria nunca te faltará”

Qué pedazo de libro, aunque muchísimos clásicos realmente pierden su appeal debido al lenguaje súper (e innecesariamente) complicado que se utiliza, el arte de la guerra no cae en esa categoría, me gustó mucho la simplicidad de la gran mayoría de lecciones y la facilidad con que se puede leer.

Read Once A Year, Always recommended, especially if you enjoy reading martial treatise/philosophy

Had to read it for a school work
Enjoyed it a bit but did not resonate anything in me to read more or learn from it.

Would've liked it more if we read classics like Shakespeare or Jane Austen instead

The Art of War is a timeless classic on strategy, tactics, and leadership, offering valuable insights that go beyond the battlefield and into areas like business, politics, and personal development. This concise text distills ancient wisdom into a set of principles that emphasize flexibility, foresight, and the importance of understanding both oneself and one’s adversary.

The book is structured around a series of aphorisms and strategies, each offering guidance on a different aspect of conflict and competition. Whether it’s managing resources, adapting to changing circumstances, or using deception to gain an advantage, the wisdom in The Art of War is as relevant today as it was when it was written. The advice is practical and often profound, with themes such as the importance of preparation, maintaining control of your emotions, and understanding the terrain—both literal and metaphorical—before engaging in any battle.

What makes this work particularly captivating is its brevity. Despite the text being just a few pages long, each chapter is packed with layers of meaning, offering insights that can be applied in various areas of life. The strategic principles laid out in the book emphasize the need to outsmart opponents, conserve resources, and strike only when the odds are in your favor.

The translation adds clarity to Sun Tzu’s original text, making it accessible to modern readers without losing the depth of the original meaning. It’s a book that encourages reflection on human nature, conflict, and how best to navigate challenges in all areas of life. While the focus is on military strategy, the lessons transcend that domain, offering valuable guidance for personal and professional endeavors.

While the book can feel somewhat abstract at times, its enduring relevance lies in its universal truths about power, control, and strategy. It’s a compact guide that provides timeless principles applicable to a range of life situations, whether in leadership, business, or even personal relationships.

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