Musashi's Dokkodo

Miyamoto Musashi (1584 - 1645), the iconic sword saint of Japan, is widely considered to be the greatest swordsman of all time. His methods of thought and strategy have been embraced by martial artists, military leaders, and captains of industry alike. Despite his undeniable genius, Musashi was also a functional psychopath - ruthless, fearless, hyper-focused, and utterly lacking in conscience.

Just before his death, Musashi penned his final thoughts on life for his favorite student Terao Magonojo, to whom he had also dedicated his famous Book of Five Rings, known as Go Rin No Sho. This treatise, titled Dokkodo or "The Way of Walking Alone", is a collection of Musashi's original 21 precepts along with five different interpretations of each passage from the perspectives of a monk (Wilder), a warrior (Burrese), a teacher (Smedley), an insurance executive (Christensen), and a businessman (Kane). Each contributor, while taking a different approach, shares the common experience of being a lifelong martial practitioner and published author. Therefore, readers are not just getting a simple translation of Musashi's writing, but are also analyzing his parting words for deeper significance.

These enduring lessons offer invaluable guidance for leading a successful and meaningful life.

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