The Essence of T'ai Chi Ch'uan: The Literary Tradition

by Benjamin P. Lo, Martin Inn (Translator), Susan Foe (Translator)

A handbook of the classical Chinese literature on which the art of t'ai chi is based. First English translation of the classic texts of T'ai Chi Ch'uan. This is required reading for practitioners of every style.

Genres: Philosophy, Nonfiction, Martial Arts, Taoism

100 pages, Paperback

First published January 21, 1993

Reviews

[Mark Isaak]

English translations of nine classic Chinese texts about tai chi. Much of it has the Taoist vagueness and contradiction which make one think, "But what does it mean?", but the basic philosophy comes through, and there are more concrete directives mixed in, too (in particular: keep practicing). The introduction demonstrates saying only what needs saying and nothing more, and glossary is also quite helpful. The book probably not of great interest to anyone not interested in tai chi or related arts, but for those who are, I highly recommend it.

[Leo]

I found this book when I traveled outside of the Bay Area and visited a small used book shop.
Later, I realized that it had been published in San Francisco and that my current martial arts instructor knows the author.

I can't rate this book. It's an esoteric philosophy book on an art I don't even understand. How can I rate this book?

[Adam Geisler]

This is an omnibus of different writings about the often misunderstood martial art. It compiles the most prominent poems and aphorisms written over the last few hundred years by tai chi practitioners. As is often the case with translating Chinese into English, the subtleties and deeper meaning of the original texts can get blurred or lost entirely. It would be nice to have a bilingual edition as an option.
Nevertheless, this compendium has served as a worthy companion to my personal re-entry into my daily practice and the goal of more mindful movement.

With Chinese classics like this, authenticating ownership can be elusive; fact and myth can be intertwined, and subsequent writers sometimes add to or embellish earlier volumes. The legendary Chang San Feng is usually credited with founding tai chi, and his "Tai Chi Chuan Ching" is considered the seminal work in any of these collections. It seems appropriate to sum this up with a line from that bundle of wisdom: "Tai Chi Chuan is like a great river rolling unceasingly."

[Deep]

Deep wisdom.

Great to see if Tai Chi philosophy resonates with you, before practicing. Even better to contemplate with daily practice.

[Neil Crowle]

This is a great piece of translation for all Taiji Quan students. It contains careful translations of works by Taiji masters over at least four hundred years, and all are essential passages to know.

[Mary]

This is not a book you "finish." I have read it through and have already gone back and re-read passages. It is a book to pick up at the beginning of a practice session. A passage read at that time will resonate and move through you as you yourself move. "Be still as a mountain, move like a great river."

[Dan Charnas]

I will be referring to this book over and over again for key concepts and terminology. Very concise, and, from a layman's perspective, an excellent translation of the Chinese literature.
"Be still as a mountain. Move like a great river."

[Sara]

I like it so far - giving me new ideas and inspiration.

[Tony]

I have tried to read several times. I have read once now. Will need to review many times more to understand. I really need a pronunciations guide.

[Kieron Niven]

Probably the best translation of the Classics that I've read, closely followed by Louis Swain's translations. The Introduction and Glossary are also invaluable.

[Jacob Lehman]

Poetry related to the practice of T'ai Chi. Important principles related to centering/direction, although it would be so easy to parody...

[Anders]

This is the essential "T'ai Chi Classics."