THE WAY OF CHUANG TZU by Chuang Tzu - Thomas Merton - 2004

Boston: Shambhala, 2004. - 8vo. - 188pp. - First Thus - F/F - NEW hardcover, with dj and silk ribbon marker. A collection of translations from the work of this 4th centruy BC Taoist philosopher. With an introduction by the foremost American Christian mystic of the 20th century. Chuang Tzu, along with Lao Tzu, one of the great figures of early Taoist thought, used parables and anecdotes, allegory and paradox, to illustrate that real happiness and freedom are found only through understanding and dwelling within the Tao, or Way, of nature and its unity. Trappist monk Thomas Merton spent several years reading and reflecting upon four different translations of the Chinese classic that bears Chuang Tzu's name. The result is this collection of poetic renderings of the great sage's work that conveys its spirit in a way no other translation has and that was Merton's personal favorite among his more than 50 books. Both prose and verse are included here, as well as a short section from Merton discussing the most salient themes of Chuang Tzu's teachings. Glossary, bibliography, and notes. . First Edition. F/F.