Tao Te Ching

[Erika S]

I just purchased a copy of Ursula K. LeGuin's translation. Absolutely beautiful, wundershoen.

My first exposure to Taoism was very recently in a course at school. Reading some quotations attributed to Lao Tzu, I was compelled to purchase a copy of the Tao Te Ching.

Does anyone here have comments on how various translations of the text affect it? Or any general comments on the text?

-Erika

[This message has been edited by ericaeatscrayons (edited 03-28-2001).]

[This message has been edited by ericaeatscrayons (edited 03-28-2001).]

[Vildecor]

I think just about any translation of anything will definitely have an effect on the material--especially if it is poetry. It's really hard to not only get the best-related words but also have them work in a similar manner as the original poem.

I enjoyed reading the Tao Te Ching three years ago. The use of contradiction made you think, and then realize that what is being said is reasonable. I wish more rulers would follow "The Way to Integrity."

Vild

[Erika S]

From what I've read, most interpretations were intended to be political, LeGuin's aim was to be poetical. This is the first version I've read; I plan on examining others to see how the mindset of the translator changes the interpretation.

Do you know whose text you read and for what purpose they intended it?

Thanks for the response.
-Erika

[Vildecor]

No, I can't really remember whose translation it was, but I do believe it was intended as a more poetical than political translation.

Vild

[Erika S]

Oh well. Thanks again

-Erika

[rikroots]

The Tao of Pooh, a book which explores the basic concepts accompanied by the characters from the Best Books Ever Written, is a must.

Truely.

I can't remember the author's name (I'm on my lunch break), but will report back later tonight if there is any interest...

Rik, knee deep, like a smooth stone in the river.

[Erika S]

You're one of four people to recommend the book. I'll have to check it out.

Thanks
-Erika

[Patrice]

Thanks, Erica, I have two other copies of the Tao Te Ching--can't remember the authors--but now I must get Leguin's translation. I also want to get Ted Hughes trans. of "Metamorphosis".

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Patrice

An ace, pestering a jet

[mondaybutterfly]

If your interested in the Tao Te Ching, try taking a Tai Chi class! Highly recomended! http://www.everypoet.com/poetry/poetry_forums/smile.gif

Monday

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You are NOT a fool to think!

[Erika S]

Patrice - Thought this would interest you. Enjoy!

Monday - Good suggestion. Thanks. I'll look into it soon.

-Erika