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A review by trisweb
Zen in the Art of Archery by Eugen Herrigel
4.0
This is a fascinating book and a quick read, so I can recommend it without hesitation. Some parts might be slightly difficult language because of the translation (from German I believe) but push past it, it's mostly very clearly and succinctly written.
The book follows the author's introduction to Zen, through the practice of the art of archery, but most importantly it presents Zen in a transition from Western to Eastern thinking. Initially the author does a great job of framing the Western point of view, then follows his experience of learning archery and his frustrations (which the reader might share), then comes a tipping point where the idea behind Zen is made as clear as it can be without experiencing it for oneself.
The way this progression is presented is quite skillful and leads the reader on a similar path of learning. You may not get the clearest idea of the meaning of Zen through this book, but it's very close to sharing the experience and you will at least be curious to learn more and possibly might think of ways it relates to your own life. Ever thought you were better at something before you started thinking too hard about it, then once you did focus intently, you messed up your "groove"? That's Zen in the most basic sense. In any case, this book is a fun read for anyone with an interest in eastern philosophy, philosophy in general, or just life, focus, and mastery of a skill. Highly recommended.
The book follows the author's introduction to Zen, through the practice of the art of archery, but most importantly it presents Zen in a transition from Western to Eastern thinking. Initially the author does a great job of framing the Western point of view, then follows his experience of learning archery and his frustrations (which the reader might share), then comes a tipping point where the idea behind Zen is made as clear as it can be without experiencing it for oneself.
The way this progression is presented is quite skillful and leads the reader on a similar path of learning. You may not get the clearest idea of the meaning of Zen through this book, but it's very close to sharing the experience and you will at least be curious to learn more and possibly might think of ways it relates to your own life. Ever thought you were better at something before you started thinking too hard about it, then once you did focus intently, you messed up your "groove"? That's Zen in the most basic sense. In any case, this book is a fun read for anyone with an interest in eastern philosophy, philosophy in general, or just life, focus, and mastery of a skill. Highly recommended.