The Book of Five Rings

William Scott Wilson's translation of Miyamoto Musashi's 17th-century classic work of personal philosophy is in every way excellent, and captures the spirit as well as the meaning of the text to perfection. This small (not quite pocket-size but close) hardcover edition is also a very pleasing artefact and a quality piece of work. Musashi's work focuses on practicing the `martial arts' - particularly swordsmanship - not from the perspective of learning technique but from internal spiritual development; the ascendancy of `mind' to which all technique must ultimately become subservient. The `five rings' are in fact five chapters themed: 1. Earth (the South) 2. Water (the East) 3. Fire (the West) 4. Wind (the North) 5. Emptiness (the Center: all action and response is most effective when preceded by emptiness - i.e. no internal noise, no preconceptions; "this must be learned") Each themed chapter incorporates short paragraphs explaining a specific aspect of how to win a contest or fight. For example, in the `Fire' ring, on `Imposing Fear:' "...the heart of fear is in the unexpected...you do not frighten your opponents with what is right before their eyes. People may be frightened by voices...or by making the small seem large...something coming suddenly from the side also induces fear. You can frighten an opponent with your body, with your sword or with your voice. It is essential to do this suddenly, when your opponent is not expecting it. Take advantage of his fear and gain the victory immediately." Musashi was allegedly self-taught, and learned everything through his own experience, introspection and native intelligence. The `Book of Five Rings' is not meant to be some kind of bible, but continuously exhorts the reader to "investigate this thoroughly" and do his own work, taking Musashi's guidelines as a starting point to guard against fatal errors. The power of Musashi's work is in its conciseness and its completeness. He is reported to have written this text in his final two years, around age 60, to summarise and condense the essence of a lifetime of success in the martial arts. It was considered vital in that age for a respected Samurai to be not just an accomplished fighter but a poet, artist, ceramicist and philosopher; learned and accomplished in many things. The book contains some of Musashi's best-known sketches and artworks, including one of his self-portraits and the very famous, powerfully minimalist 'Shrike on a withered branch'. Overall, if you want a good translation of this timeless classic, this edition can be unconditionally recommended as a fine choice.

This is a very good and stylised book which provides a great insight on Miyamoto Musashi and hes thought process and way of life. The translation from Japanese to English is done to a very precise level and anyone interested in modern day swordsmanship should most definitely have a read of the book. My only complaint would be that sometimes the structure of writing can sometimes come across as repetitive and the use of listing is used very often so it takes loads of patience to read this book , but definitely worth it!

Better than lord of the rings and i like lord of the rings

its okay I guess but not as good as some translations.

Won't discuss the contents of the book, but delivery wemt smoothly, packaging was durable, safe and thick enough. The prize is also perfect. Nothing to complain about.

A life Changing Read and a book full of philosophy you can apply to everyday life. I was surprised how quick of a read this book was but that adds to the complex masterpiece of the Book of Five Rings. I had to Read the book twice to getter better understanding of Musashi`s way of life and philosophy. This book has great depth and I don't regret paying the hefty price for it, I bought the book originally hoping there would be sword techniques revealed inside. There was none but what I gained from this book was way more valuable... a sharp Mind and a different outlook on life.

It is a very good thought provoking book and there are quite a few good thoughts or reflections to consider, even though it isn't a book to pick up when You're stressed, You have to be in the right frame of mind to see the general idea. Worth picking if You're trying to make sense of the world

Due to what some other reviewers have said, I should point out that this is NOT an instruction manual on martial arts, it's not full of pretty pictures for you to copy moves from and become a literary kung fu black belt. It's a guide to the mindset that one needs to develop in order to succeed as a complete martialist. Some people may find it a bit 'deep', but it is really all about simplicity. Don't try to read too much into everything or you will end up making something simple far too complex.

Loved the book.

Amazing book

Bästa boken

Great book

Really enjoyed reading. The translation made practical sense for everyday life.