Tao Te Ching: Annotated & Explained (SkyLight Illuminations) 1st Edition, Kindle Edition

The translator has put a lot of thought into this translation. As I read it, the translation masterfully uses the english language device of the strong verb, which enables the text to carry through its rhythm throughout the 81 chapters.I have just two overall criticisms, about the annotations, and about the purpose of the text. The annotations are more introductory narrative expositions than critical analysis. They are meant to prepare and open the reader to the chapters, not necessarily to elucidate the completeness of each line. To give just one example, chapter 11 discusses , in a nutshell, the nature of activity, creativity, and space, of which the annotations hardly provide an analysis (to give just one example). I would read the chapters as they stand, and look at the annotations only if there is a real question or lack of clarity about the chapters. Reading the other way around, or beginning with the annotations, and then moving to the chapters, risks screwing up the genuine experience of the complexities of the chapters that at the same time are also simple truths.Obviously, an entire world view on metaphysics and cosmology is used or presumed by the original author, and if this were to be defined or discussed in the one page annotations, it would raise the annotations beyond the introductory level for the purpose of which I am understanding them to have been written.Regarding the purpose of the text, it must be kept in mind that this book is a treatise on good government, which means it was written for someone who wants to rule. This makes the text doubly interesting. The book indicates that to rule well, the ruler must know the people s/he governs. This also means that the people, in order to live well, must understand the ruler in his/her different manifestations (see, for example, chapters 17 ff.). So the book must work both ways. More details could have been provided on this, in the foreword or in the annotations.

Classics. Well translated with some interesting points in footnotes. Wouldn't recommend reading the footnotes during the first read-through, for they tend to be quite simplistic and subjective. At some points I even had to shrug the IMO obviously misaligned conclusions. They do provide some insights, albeit heavily influenced by American way of thinking. Europeans, especially Eastern, might come to different conclusions than the translator.All in all aligns well with modern liberal thought

I fell in love with the Tao Te Ching when I discovered it nearly 45 years ago. I was so enamored with the book (which I had checked out of the library) that I created a copy for myself on a manual typewriter. (This was back when the book was not readily available in bookstores.) When the Feng-English translation came out, I enjoyed it immensely because it was poetic and accompanied by terrific photographs. It was my favorite for many years. But after years of reading this text as well as many other translations, I have found that Derek Lin's translation and illuminating annotation seems to get closer to the heart of Lao Tzu's message better than any other rendering. It is now my go-to book when I want to recall what Lao Tzu said about a particular topic.

I've read many different translations of this classic text, and recommend doing so to others. Each different translation will give you something different. However, if I'd have to choose only one, or one to start, I'd choose this one. A very readable, clear translation, that still holds close to the more literal ones out there.I also find very helpful the notes that come immediately after each chapter/verse. The notes are highly ordered with numbers pointing to the text.For those with a Kindle: I have this book in print and on Kindle. The Kindle version used to have terrible organisation, with the whole Tao Te Ching being one entry, and I returned it. That is fixed now. There is a proper content page, with a section for each chapter, and a separate entry for its notes. So it is much easier to go back and forth and read favourite chapters when you want it.Highly recommended.

If you value common sense and the beauty of life this translation is a revelation. I have other versions, but this one by Derek Lin is as good as it gets. I have taught Tai Chi for over 30 years and all that I have learned is expressed in the Tao Te Ching. Always remember, it's a wonderful guide on your journey in this reality, but only if you put it into practice will you understand its meaning. And yet the goal is not understanding it, but the process of learning it over and over again. Enjoy!

I do not do reviews but I feel compelled to in this case. This is the only book I have ever read 4 times and counting. I gain something every time I read through it! This is a truly masterful translation with enlightening insight. I was never one to give much thought to spirituality but as I began to explore the world’s religious texts I tripped on one of the many wells in the field and rolled into the vast ocean that is the Tao. All of Mr. Lin’s books are tremendous and truly resonate with me! I urge anyone who reads this review to rest your mind in the shade of the Shu tree and enjoy all of Derek Lin’s books!! They are all masterpieces - especially the Tao Te Ching! Thank you, Mr. Lin, and thank you for reading my review! :-)

Each chapter contains a thoughtful explanation of the thinking behind the words. This book makes more sense than other versions I have read which leave the reader to interpret some odd sounding phrases, possibly because the 'translator' is first having to interpret the Chinese symbols with the aid of a dictionary and no working knowledge of Chinese. I don't speak Chinese but I am aware of the possibility of things being lost in translation between the two languages.

An excellent rendering of my favourite book ever ... ! Derek's eludications on the text added so much to what is already an excellent text!

Bought a used copy, it's as good as new. The English translation and explanation is very modern and relatable.

I love the detail and accuracy. Thank you.

We here in the west have differing cultural application of the Tao, it is refreshing to see a translation which not only is easily accessible to westerners but holds to and celebrates the ancient cultural ties Taoism still has to Chinese and specifically for I-Kuan-Tao Taiwan today.A translation which does not hold poetry above meaning, but as many accurate translations (see Dr J Wu) has a poetry of its own which is more beneficial for being simple, pretty though poetical interpretatiosn are, they are like a glass of cola in the dessert, nice enough but not as beneficial as pure simple nourishing water.Also useful in this translation is far more than being a simple translation from Chinese to English Derek Lin has provided insights and teachings to help understanding of the chapters of the Tao te ching. This is helpful for both begginers and those of us with a few years of Tao cultivation, reassessing the teachings and finding new meaning is art of what happenings on the Path of Tao.A real labour of love, from someone i have counted as my friend for many years and has helped me to find my feet on the way, he has a good heart and this comes across in his work.Becca