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For the Quite Mind I read this book when it was near/below freezing outside; I sat on a metal bench. I read with such intensity, that I needed the cold to dedicate my mind to the words I was reading. I was often confused by the writings, where I would think about them in great detail until the message became clear. Each paragraph is very important. It is a short book, but it should take longer to read than the Bible. I read it in two weeks, thanks to the cold, but, still, I missed more than I can imagine. Should your eyes miss one word, or a single thought take you away, you need read the passage again and again. This book will change your perspective... change how you view life. It is VERY philosophical, if you concentrate on the reading. I recommend it to those who need change in their lives, those who feel powerless but especially those who feel they cannot control their thoughts. This book is about concentration, dedication and loyalty. This is an important piece of literature! A book by a samurai for a samurai This book is great for the aspiring martial artist or even someone who just likes to learn about what feudal Japan was like through the eyes of one of it's warriors. Myself being a student of kenjutsu (Art of the Sword), could relate to a lot of what Yamamoto was saying, and apply it to my everyday life. This isn't a story with a beginning, middle, end and a plot, however it is more of an instructional book from a retired samurai to a younger samurai eager to learn. Yamamoto focuses on methods of how a samurai should act at all times and in different circumstances as well as recounting some stories of past samurai and daimyo (feudal lord). A good buy, definately. Mishima and Hagakure The bulk of the reviews prior to my own do a great job of covering the books aspects. However, I wanted to make one point in regards to those who, after reading the book, were really impressed by it. If you enjoyed reading the book, also try and find a copy of "The Way of the Samurai Yukio Mishima on Hagakure in Modern Life" from a library or used book store. It is out of print for the time being, but if you can get ahold of a copy you will get even more out of Hagakure after reading this book. I was fortunate enough to obtain both books around the same time and this really fostered my interest in bushido and the samurai culture in a very profound way as well as lead me to discover Mishima's works and life in regards to the samurai ideals. An excellent collection of bushido axioms. Hagakure offers an introduction to the much revered Samurai code of Bushido. Originally serving as a secret code of duty and honor, Bushido has become the cornerstone of the Japanese warrior spirit. The book is comprised of around 300 selected sayings of the seventeenth century Samurai turned monk, Yamamoto Tsunetomo. They vary in scope from social etiquette to dying with honor. Hagakure is a must own for anyone who truly wants to understand the history and motives of Samurai Bushido. A Powerful Message The Hagakure is a mixed bag for the average reader- some of the contents are life changing and pensive, while others seem very out of place. Overall, it provides an excellent view into the way of life that was the Samurai. It had a profound impact in my daily life, and I would like to absorb more after another time through it. See also:
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