Zhuangzi: Basic Writings / Edition 1

by Zhuangzi, Burton Watson

Overview

Only by inhabiting Dao (the Way of Nature) and dwelling in its unity can humankind achieve true happiness and freedom, in both life and death. This is Daoist philosophy's central tenet, espoused by the person—or group of people—known as Zhuangzi (369?–286? BCE) in a text by the same name. To be free, individuals must discard rigid distinctions between right and wrong, and follow a course of action not motivated by gain or striving. When one ceases to judge events as good or bad, man-made suffering disappears, and natural suffering is embraced as part of life.

Zhuangzi elucidates this mystical philosophy through humor, parable, and anecdote, using non sequitur and even nonsense to illuminate truths beyond the boundaries of ordinary logic. Boldly imaginative and inventively written, the Zhuangzi floats free of its historical period and society, addressing the spiritual nourishment of all people across time. One of the most justly celebrated texts of the Chinese tradition, the Zhuangzi is read by thousands of English-language scholars each year, yet, until now, only in the Wade-Giles romanization. Burton Watson's conversion to pinyin in this book brings the text in line with how Chinese scholars, and an increasing number of other scholars, read it.

Product Details

ISBN-13:	9780231129596
Publisher:	Columbia University Press
Publication date:	04/16/2003
Series:	Translations from the Asian Classics
Edition description:	New Edition
Pages:	168
Sales rank:	397,808
Product dimensions:	7.80(w) x 5.00(h) x (d)
Age Range:	18 Years

About the Author

Burton Watson has taught at Columbia, Stanford, and Kyoto Universities and is one of the world's best-known translators of Chinese and Japanese works. His translations include The Demon at Agi Bridge and Other Japanese Tales, The Analects of Confucius, The Tales of the Heike, and The Lotus Sutra; the writings of Mozi, Xunzi, and Han Feizi; The Columbia Book of Chinese Poetry; and Sima Qian's Records of the Grand Historian.

Table of Contents

Outline of Early Chinese History
Introduction
Free and Easy Wandering
Discussion on Making All Things Equal
The Secret of Caring for Life
In the World of Men
The Sign of Virtue Complete
The Great and Venerable Teacher
Fit for Emperors and Kings
Autumn Floods
Supreme Happiness
Mastering Life
External Things

Editorial Reviews

Burton Watson... possesses all the qualities which distinguish a master translator. As a craftsman and as a poet, he has inspired and challenged two generations.

Asian Affairs

Translation of any of the classics... from the hand of Burton Watson is an event to be welcomed with gratitude.

Journal of Asian Studies