There is not much to say here except that this book is very complicated if you do not get a good translation. Thomas Cleary's translation here is probably one of the best out there to offer a version that translates well into English. The Art of War harnesses the Zen-state of Buddhism in order to master war is a paradox that Westerners have a very difficult time comprehending. Cleary's translation offers a rare but well written method for you to approach this paradox. His prologue is a must read for all. The Art of War in itself is very difficult to comprehend. Written in practical verses that seem applicable in everyday life, they are actually profound concepts with multiple meanings. I've owned and looked at several translations but I have to say this is one of the best. This book will provide you with the prologue to get you started to digest the dyspeptic Chinese bible of war, and the lucid translations of the verses thereafter will need time to assemble correctly in your head. I want to strongly advise you not to get discouraged because, afterall, the Art of War is very short compared to The Book of Five Rings or On War by Carl von Clausewitz. Once you get past the seemingly endless contrarian advice, you'll understand why this is still the most widely recognized book in Asia on how to deal with conflict and confrontation.
The Art of War is well known. Dating from well over 2,000 years ago, it is a compilation of short sayings relating to military strategy. These sayings have seemingly been found applicable by generations of military and business leaders.
The author holds a Ph.D. in East Asian Languages and Civilizations from Harvard University. This new translation is written close to modern language so that it makes more sense to the modern American reader. It further establishes the point of view of the spiritual traditions of Taoism, the origin of psychology, science, and technology in East Asia that are the source of the insights into human nature that underlie this classic.
The illustrations in this edition include some of the finest works of art from China, Japan, and Korea, selected from museums, galleries, and private collections in countries throughout the world.
