Fingers Pointing to the Moon: Words and Images of Paradox-Common Sense-Whimsy-Transcendence

by Jane English

In the spirit of the Zen teaching story that speaks of not mistaking a finger that points to the moon for the moon itself, this book contains photographs, words and paintings that point to ineffable yet commonplace realities that are beyond words and images. This engrossing collection has a delightful mix of serious and light-hearted approaches. It explores diverse subjects, from the implications of being born non-labor cesarean to proving statistically that the Tarot divination system in fact transcends the supposedly immutable laws of chance. In an insightful essay Jane examines the gap between technology and consciousness, seeing nuclear energy as both problem and opportunity. Drawing on her own experiences she also explores the relationship of white and Native American cultures. Raising more questions than she answers she gives readers the opportunity to examine their own journey and ask themselves, "How willing am I to explore my own depths?" Fingers pointing to the Moon is a unique and autobiographical telling of significant events and pathways in the life of Jane English, author, photographer, artist, and hot-air balloon pilot, who also holds a doctorate in subatomic physics.

Paperback

Published March 1, 1999

About the author

Jane English (born 1942) is a physicist, photographer, journalist and translator.

English received her B.A. in Physics from Mount Holyoke College in 1964 and Ph.D. from the University of Wisconsin-Madison for her work in high energy particle physics. She taught courses in Oriental thought and modern physics at Colorado College.

English is known for her collaborative translation of the Tao Te Ching of Lao Tsu which she illustrated through photography, in collaboration with her spouse Gia-Fu Feng.

Reviews

[Erin · Rating 4 out of 5]

Not my typical read, broadened my horizons.

[Lisa]

new