People usually think of Lao-tzu as a hermit, a dropout from society, dwelling serenely in some mountain hut, unvisited except perhaps by the occasional traveler arriving from a ’60s joke to ask, “What is the meaning of life?” But it’s clear from his teachings that he deeply cared about society, if society means the welfare of one’s fellow human beings his book is, among other things, a treatise on the art of government, whether of a country or of a child. All he left us is his book: the classic manual on the art of living, written in a style of gemlike lucidity, radiant with humor and grace and largeheartedness and deep wisdom: one of the wonders of the world. Like an Iroquois woodsman, he left no traces. Even the meaning of his name is uncertain (the most likely interpretations: “the Old Master” or, more picturesquely, “the Old Boy”). But all the information that has come down to us is highly suspect. He may have been an older contemporary of Confucius (551-479 BCE) and may have held the position of archive-keeper in one of the petty kingdoms of the time. Since it is already well known by its Chinese title, I have let that stand.Ībout Lao-tzu there is practically nothing to be said. ‘ I have read many translations of this ancient text but Mitchell’ s is by far the best.’ James Frey, author of A Million Little Pieces.Tao Te Ching (pronounced, more or less, Dow Deh Jing) can be translated as The Book of the Immanence of the Way or The Book of the Way and of How It Manifests Itself in the World or, simply, The Book of the Way. ‘ Beautiful and accessible the English, as 'fluid as melting ice,' is a joy to read throughout’ The New Republic. Features the best of classical Chinese painting A modern, accessible translation which reflects the poetry of Lao Tzu's words. An illustrated edition of one of the most widely translated texts in the world.

Stephen Mitchell’ s acclaimed translation is accompanied by ancient Chinese paintings that beautifully reflect Lao Tzu’ s timeless words. Read more the basic principle of the universe. In 81 short, poetic chapters, the book looks at the basic predicament of being alive and teaches how to work for the good with the effortless skill that comes from being in accord with the Tao, or. ‘ What is rooted is easy to nourish What is recent is easy to correct’ Lao Tzu's Tao Te Ching (The Book of the Way) is the classic manual on the art of living. Num Pages: 96 pages, 45 archive illustrations. In 81 short, poetic chapters, the book looks at the basic predicament of being alive and teaches how to work for the good with the effortless skill that comes from being in accord with the Tao, or the basic principle of the universe. Lao Tzu's Tao Te Ching (The Book of the Way) is the classic manual on the art of living.

Lao tzu tao te ching stephen mitchell