Thoughts about 'The Art of War' by Sun Tzu

[@book-ramble]

Welcome! I'd love to know if you watch - please, leave a comment!

[@ReadingIDEAS.-uz9xk]

Good ramble. This is a magnificent book. I recommend the Wordsworth classic edition as by the best translation. It is beautifully written. There is great advice in almost every sentence. 'Therefore, a skilled commander seeks victory from the situation and does not demand it of his subordinates. He selects suitable men and exploits the situation. He who utilises the situation uses his men in fighting as one rolls logs or stones. Now, the nature of logs and stones is that on stable ground they are static; on a slope, they move. If square, they stop; if round, they roll. Thus, the energy of troops skilfully commanded in battle may be compared to the momentum of round boulders which roll down from a mountain thousands of feet in height.' Who can't love that? I recommend 'The Prince,' by Machiavelli - the Penguin Classic version. Best wishes and happy reading.

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Yes. The Prince is a definite. I have half read it before.... your quote is about me: 'Now, the nature of logs and stones is that on stable ground they are static; on a slope, they move. If square, they stop; if round, they roll.' Lol.

[@apoetreadstowrite]

Wow, what a heavenly edition, looks amazing. I don't think it's a book I'd be drawn to, other than for its Classical Chinese vibe, but I enjoyed your review.

[@GrammaticusBooks]

Great copy of Sun Tzu! And excellent overview! I’ve read this several times. But probably due for a reread. Question - Have you read The Book of Five Rings? And if so, what did you think?

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Thanks for the comment! I have NOT read that book, but it IS on my list too. Old book, indeed. So, at this stage unable to say... have you read it?

[@GrammaticusBooks]

@@book-ramble Yes, very different in style than Art of War. Much more cerebral. With less direct practical advice. But the Book of Five Rings did actually help me get through Aircrewman Candidate School. It's a very short read. I do recommend it as a bit of a bookend to Art of War. But from the Japanese perspective.

[@book-ramble]

@@GrammaticusBooks Thanks for the recommendation! I will certainly look for it. :)

[@SeaninsShelf]

I have been in some leadership positions before that I am grateful for and hopefully I will be in more if I want them if this job market will let me. I have often overlooked this book because it is very popular in collegiate circles in the States among a certain crowd I call the "Horny Business dude bro" who I generally avoided but it definitely seems like it has some valuable things to teach. Thanks for sharing!

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:)

[@Already-Overbooked]

I really enjoyed your review it was great!

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Thank you so much!

[@booksoffthebeatenpath]

This is one of my favorite books and I have made both my sons read it. I read it before a job or promotion interview. It’s my secret weapon! Loved seeing where you live! So beautiful ❤

[@book-ramble]

My daughter is now reading the book, and finding it fascinating! A great weapon!