Reddit reviews Lao Tzu, Tao Te Ching

I like the red pine translation:

http://www.amazon.com/Lao-tzus-Taoteching-Lao-Tzu/dp/1556592906/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1320331188&sr=8-1

and ursula le guin's:

http://www.amazon.com/Lao-Tzu-Tao-Te-Ching/dp/B001HZ1VOG/ref=sr_1_2?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1320331225&sr=1-2


in my opinion its always good to read a few different different translations of the same passage to really get at the thing. each translation is informed by the translators time place understanding and belief in the source material, which i find interesting to cross compare.

the daodejing is collection of classical chinese poems, and those are very modal for lack of better word. in a very rough description, classical chinese poems consist of loosely connected nouns and descriptors devoid of syntax leading to a purposive ambiguity necessitating the reader to in effect finish the poems themselves. so it is literally the entire point of the daodejing that it doesn't mean one exact thing in particular, but loosely describes a sentiment we finish in our minds.

I AM THAT

Reflections on the Art of Living: A Joseph Campbell Companion

Ursula LeGuin's translation of the Tao Te Ching

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Breaking Open the Head

Zhou Yi - the Book of Changes - this is by far, the most lucid version I have found; profoundly useful and amazing reflections and a true companion along the way.