Dan's review of Tao Te Ching: A New English Version
Tao Te Ching: A New English Version by Stephen Mitchell
Dan's review
rating:
bookshelves:
philosophy,
religion
recommended for:
everyone
status:
Read in January, 1995
I am tempted to select this as my all-time favorite book. I just lack the nerve required to narrow the field to one.
There are many versions of the Tao Te Ching, both with and without commentaries. I comment on this version and the rather ancient 1944 version by Witter Bynner. I recommend reading at least two. Like floral bouquets, each one draws the eye to different expressions of beauty.
I have several of Stephen Mitchell’s books because I am very fond of his prose. He explains that he pays close attention to poetic meter—a subject I know nothing about—and I just know I like the results. His work is fluid and accessible, and this applies in full measure to his Tao Te Ching.
The Tao Te Ching is brimming with timeless messages. This is his rendering of verse 75:
When taxes are too high,
people go hungry.
When the government is too intrusive
people lose their spirit.
Maybe we should all read this just in case we become elected officials some day and ...more
There are many versions of the Tao Te Ching, both with and without commentaries. I comment on this version and the rather ancient 1944 version by Witter Bynner. I recommend reading at least two. Like floral bouquets, each one draws the eye to different expressions of beauty.
I have several of Stephen Mitchell’s books because I am very fond of his prose. He explains that he pays close attention to poetic meter—a subject I know nothing about—and I just know I like the results. His work is fluid and accessible, and this applies in full measure to his Tao Te Ching.
The Tao Te Ching is brimming with timeless messages. This is his rendering of verse 75:
When taxes are too high,
people go hungry.
When the government is too intrusive
people lose their spirit.
Maybe we should all read this just in case we become elected officials some day and ...more
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