Lao Tzu: Tao Te Ching

A Book about the Way and the Power of the Way

by Ursula K. Le Guin

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Pub Date May 14 2019 | Archive Date May 14 2019

Shambhala Publications, Inc. | Shambhala

Religion & Spirituality

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Description

A rich, poetic, and socially relevant version of the great spiritual-philosophical classic of Taoism, the Tao Te Ching—from a legendary literary icon

Most people know Ursula K. Le Guin for her extraordinary science fiction and fantasy. Fewer know just how pervasive Taoist themes are to so much of her work. And in Lao Tzu: Tao Te Ching, we are treated to Le Guin’s unique take on Taoist philosophy’s founding classic.

Le Guin presents Lao Tzu’s time-honored and astonishingly powerful philosophy like never before. Drawing on a lifetime of contemplation and including extensive personal commentary throughout, she offers an unparalleled window into the text’s awe-inspiring, immediately relatable teachings and their inestimable value for our troubled world.

Jargon-free but still faithful to the poetic beauty of the original work, Le Guin’s unique translation is sure to be welcomed by longtime readers of the Tao Te Ching as well as those discovering the text for the first time.

Available Editions

EDITION	Other Format
ISBN	9781611807240
PRICE	$16.95 (USD)
PAGES	208

Additional Information

Average rating from 8 members

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Featured Reviews

Paul V, Reviewer

I'm not sure how to rate this since the book has been around so .long and has so many translations. I've only read a couple. But I did like this one. The translation seemed credible and the commentary generally helpful or interesting; What she brought to it, I liked. I'm sure someone with more experience with this ancient text will have much more helpful comments/input.

I really appreciate the copy for review!

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Dee B, Educator

I think Lao Tzu, whoever "he" is, would love this translation of the Tao Te Ching. He has hundreds of translations to choose from but the simple, uncomplicated cadence of Ursula's language infuses a wonderful lightness of touch and fun into a book which deals with all of our deepest philosophical questions. In addition she offers brief explanations or musings of her own after each stanza and these are likewise wisely and delicately observed. As a great writer in numerous genres and as a lifelong devotee of Lao Tzu's great work she is perfectly qualified to do so. This would be a perfect choice for your first reading of of this world-renowned classic. If you've read it many times and in many versions, I'm certain you will find new perspectives and unmitigated pleasure in this edition.