Zhuangzi

Basic Writings

Zhuangzi, Burton Watson

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English

Columbia University Press
16 April 2003

Oriental & Indian philosophy; Religion & beliefs

Series: Translations from the Asian Classics

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.

By: Zhuangzi
Translated by: Burton Watson
Imprint: Columbia University Press
Country of Publication: United States
Dimensions: Height: 127mm, Width: 198mm, Spine: 10mm
Weight: 198g
ISBN: 9780231129596
ISBN 10: 0231129599
Series: Translations from the Asian Classics
Pages: 168
Publication Date: 16 April 2003
Audience: Professional and scholarly , Undergraduate
Format: Paperback
Publisher's Status: Active

Burton Watson is one of the world's best-known translators from the Chinese and Japanese. He received the PEN translation prize in 1981. His translations include The Lotus Sutra, The Vimalakirti Sutra, Ryokan: Zen Monk-Poet of Japan, Saigyo: Poems of a Mountain Home, and The Columbia Book of Chinese Poetry: From Early Times to the Thirteenth Century, all published by Columbia. This book presents Watson's renowned translation of a Chinese philosophy classic in pinyin romanization for the first time.

Reviews for Zhuangzi: Basic Writings

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 *