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3.59 AVERAGE
3.59 AVERAGE
challenging
informative
reflective
slow-paced
Obviously, "The Art of War" is a classic, so I am not giving it 3.75 stars because I think I know better. My rating is primarily about the commentary and explanatory materials of the translator. This is the first book of classic Chinese philosophy I've read, but I am familiar with western philosophy, and my feeling is that the translator could have done more to teach the reader 'how to read' this book. He does provide useful historical and philosophical context. Yet 'The Art of War' frequently veers between the seemingly obvious and the slightly baffling, and I would have found it helpful to know more about, e.g., what was considered to be good argument or effective rhetoric when it was written, why the text has the particular form it does and how that is supposed to convince or enlighten the reader, how to take some of the simpler-seeming passages and unfold them into a wealth of deeper meanings, etc.
I've never read any other translations of or commentaries on 'The Art of War', so I can't say that what I'm looking for has been done. I just had a feeling as I was reading that it might be possible to have a better teacher than Dr. Cleary (though the translation itself may be top-notch).
I've never read any other translations of or commentaries on 'The Art of War', so I can't say that what I'm looking for has been done. I just had a feeling as I was reading that it might be possible to have a better teacher than Dr. Cleary (though the translation itself may be top-notch).
The way people talk about this book you'd think it would not be about literal warfare but it is, it's the most overhyped thing i have ever read. Most people who unironically gas this up probably haven't read this and just think the idea of an ancient mongolian warrior is the coolest thing ever. Very Reddit.
Watch out world. I am now equipped in the art of war.
informative
informative
reflective
fast-paced
informative
inspiring
fast-paced
adventurous
informative
inspiring
fast-paced
challenging
informative
slow-paced
Fascinating read. As I am obviously not planning to go to war etc., for me the book was useful in training my logical thinking, teaching me the importance of taking notice of every little detail and a few things about honor. Definitely deserves a re-read.